The Best Glove for Chemical Handling

 Below we lay out just a few chemicals and an appropriate glove for handling.

In almost every industry and application, there is a necessity to use chemicals. Many of these chemicals can cause damage to your skin, and ultimately your health if proper protection is not used. In the following article, you will learn about some of the most commonly used chemicals and which type of glove will provide adequate protection. It is important to be informed where these common chemicals are found in order to protect yourself and those around you. We also recommend you follow workplace guidelines and checking MSDS sheets for the chemicals you are handling.

Ethylene Glycol:

This chemical, typically found in water-based wood stains should be handled with glove protection. Although this chemical is not as easily absorbed through the skin, it is still highly recommended by the CDC that gloves are worn while handling this chemical.

If this chemical is found in its liquid form, vinyl or nitrile gloves would provide suitable protection. If this chemical is found in its ether form, it is more dangerous and while a nitrile glove would still offer substantial protection, it would be wise to only be exposed for a limited time.

Ammonium Hydroxide:

This chemical is usually found in strong household cleaners. It is commonly used in doctors offices and hospitals, where a sterile and clean environment is a must. While its end result produces very sanitary surfaces the use of the chemical could be harmful to the person using it to clean.

When handling this chemical it is important to use gloves to protect your hands from any irritation or damage from ammonium hydroxide. Two suitable glove options to handle this chemical would be nitrile or neoprene.

Sodium Hydroxide:

Sodium hydroxide is a very common, and dangerous chemical that can be found in drain cleaners, cleaning products, and wood stains. Just like ammonium hydroxide, it is used in hospitals and doctors offices to achieve a high level of sanitation. This chemical is highly corrosive and can easily cause skin burns if you handle it unprotected.

If the solution you are using contains up to a 50% concentration of sodium hydroxide, it is safe to use a nitrile or vinyl glove. In the rare occurrence that you are handling a higher concentration you should be sure to use a stronger glove, such as laminate film.

Sodium Hypochlorite:           

This chemical is more commonly known as bleach. Bleach is used in so many different applications spanning many industries. If used without protection it can cause mild to sever irritation and damage to the users skin. Similar to sodium hydroxide, you can protect yourself with nitrile or vinyl gloves.