There are a range of different chemical resistant gloves that can be selected based on the type of hazardous chemicals that you may come into contact with at work. They are generally made of either nitrile, rubber, latex or PVC with a range of linings or are unlined. When choosing a suitable glove it is important to consider:
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chemicals handled within the workplace
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dexterity required when wearing the gloves
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whether chemical resistant coating is required over the whole glove or just the palm surface
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how long the gloves are worn for and therefore do they need linings or need to be breathable
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the length of glove coverage required for the hand and forearm
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the type of cuff required such as the safety cuff or knitted wrist cuff
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do they need to be reusable or are disposable versions preferred
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range of sizes available to suit the range of wearers.
The relevant Australian Standard to consider when choosing gloves for the workplace is AS/NZS 2161: 2000 Occupational protective gloves.
Workplace solutions and adjustments:
For people who work in environments where they are exposed to chemicals the use of appropriate protective gloves is essential. Due to skin sensitivities, glove materials, sizing and design may need to be considered prior to purchase. The use of cotton gloves to line specialised chemical resistant gloves can also prevent any skin reaction (ABC Safety Glasses 2006; Standards Australia 2000; National Occupational Health & Safety Commission 2001; Standards Australia 2000).
Relevant Links:
References:
ABC Safety Glasses 2006, Chemical Gloves, ABC Safety Glasses, Texas, viewed 28 May 2008, http://www.abcsafetyglasses.com/chemical-gloves.html
National Occupational Health & Safety Commission (NOHSC) 2001, National Standard: Storage and Handling of Workplace Dangerous Goods (NOHSC: 1015(2001), Canberra, viewed 28 May 2008, http://www.ascc.gov.au/NR/rdonlyres/B157A229-4D9B-4648-B462-A06EA18E2A93/0/NOHSC10152001_STANDARD.pdf
Standards Australia 2000, AS 2161, Occupational protective gloves, Standards Australia, Sydney.