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materials not only differ in protective properties, but also in texture, flexibility and thickness, there
are two key factors to consider when choosing gloves: degradation and permeation.

Latex. Natural rubber, or latex, gloves are the least expensive and most common type of glove used
in occupational settings, it’s mainly used in the food industry and the medical industry because it
does protect well against bloodborne pathogens.

Nitrile. Nitrile gloves have a good, general chemical resistance and are generally less expensive
than other gloves.

Neoprene. Neoprene gloves provide excellent chemical resistance to a broad range of hazardous
chemicals including acids, alcohols, oils and inks, "Neoprene is great in situations needing good
sensitivity and grip."

Neoprene gloves are not recommended for use with inorganic oxidizing agents, however, such as
concentrated nitric or chromic acids.

PVC (polyvinylchloride). PVC (also known as plastic or vinyl) gloves are used frequently in the
petrochemical industry, PVC gloves are durable with good snag and cut resistance.

PVA (polyvinyl alcohol). PVA gloves are excellent when dealing with aromatics and chlorinated
chemicals, according to Arbill's Weiss. "PVA will hold up to some really nasty stuff," he said, "but
water will dissolve it."

PVA gloves are water soluble because they are made out of a water solution, Slosser explained.
"While they are tremendous against almost any chemical, if you have them out on a humid day, they
begin to draw moisture out of the air and literally dissolve in front of your eyes."

Butyl. A major use for butyl gloves is for working with gases -- chlorine gas or hydrogen cyanide.

For example, when choosing appropriate chemical-resistant gloves that provide the best protection
against a certain chemical, be aware that some gloves may be resistant to some chemicals but not
others.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of PPE – when working with chemicals or any other hazard – relies on
workers using it correctly. Dexterity and clear vision are essential as is training on how to fit and use
PPE properly.

Other control measures businesses should consider when managing the health and safety risks
associated with using, handling, generating and storing hazardous chemicals include but are not
limited to:

ENSIGN| Unit IG2 – Element 7 – Chemical and Biological 43
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