Disposable gloves offer extra protection against contamination. But which ones should you choose for your organization and what kind of use instructions should you provide?
Who uses disposable gloves?
Disposable gloves are used predominantly by health care personnel to prevent the spread of infection or illness. In the context of the Covid-19 outbreak, they are part of the obligatory PPE for healthcare personnel who enter the room of a patient with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Disposable gloves are also used in the industrial, chemical and food sectors. To select the best type for your organization, get free personal advice now.
Types
Nitrile Gloves
Nitrile is a durable, synthetic rubber technically known as acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber. The medical industry is the major end-user for nitrile gloves. They are latex free and have very low allergy rates. Nitrile has excellent chemical resistance as compared to latex. A big advantage of nitrile gloves is that the material has a tendency to tear when punctured. This is an easy way to recognize that the glove has been compromised.
Latex Gloves
Latex gloves are made out of rubber and have been used for many years. Latex gloves are generally considered more comfortable than nitrile gloves, but modern advances in nitrile glove manufacturing have seen nitrile gloves become thinner and more comfortable.
Vinyl Gloves
Vinyl gloves are only used in certain environments. They are latex-free and are often the cheapest option of the three materials. This type of glove is generally used when dealing with non-hazardous materials as they offer very minor protection.
How should gloves fit?
Gloves only work when used properly, so it is essential that you provide people in your organization with clear guidance on making the most of this resource.
Find out more: FAQ: How to Use Disposable Gloves
Well-fitting gloves have no excess material at the fingertips and are not tight across the palm. Gloves that are too large may cause lack of dexterity and leakage, whereas gloves that are too small may cause skin irritation and may tear.
Most importantly, gloves should be changed after each use. That significantly reduces the risk of recontamination and can help keep everyone in your organization safe.
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