Make sure gloves are resistant to chemicals handled.

Gloves and Clothing Wearing gloves and other protective clothing can provide an effective barrier between you and the chemicals you are handling as long as the glove or clothing material is resistant to the chemical being handled. Select your chemical-protective clothing based on the areas of the body likely to become contaminated during an incident, the resistance of the material to the chemicals handled, and the dexterity required in performing the task. Common laboratory gloves worn for protection against biological agents do not offer chemical protection. Consult the following table for general glove selection guidance based on chemical resistance. Consult your glove manufacturer’s chemical resistance guide, or contact OEHS, for specific selection guidance. Remember, no material is impermeable to all chemicals or to any chemical indefinitely; therefore, change chemical protective clothing frequently and whenever it becomes contaminated. Click here for a list of appropriate personal protective equipment for common laboratory tasks.