When inspecting the lab, do not forget that gloves may be needed to protect the hands from hazards other than chemicals, agents, infectious material or RAM. Examples of hand hazards that would require protection include:
- Penetration by sharp objects, such as needles/sharps, animal bites or puncture wounds from the breakage of delicate glass.
- Exposure to temperature extremes, which could be associated heated surfaces (ovens, pans, etc.), or cooled surfaces (lab specimens stored at -80 degrees C., etc.).
- Exposure to temperature extremes associated with processes or products, for example, cryogenic materials (like dry ice, liquid nitrogen, etc.) are common in the laboratory.
The use of a double set of gloves when a single glove material does not provide adequate protection for all the hazards encountered may be necessary. For instance, a procedure involving a chemical hazard and sharp objects may require the combined used of a chemical-resistant glove and a cut-resistant glove. Exhibit C is an example of this. You can see that they are wearing a chemical-resistant glove over a cut-resistant glove. Additionally, sometimes chemical use alone will require the layered use of two different types of gloves.
Shown are examples of gloves which can be used for the hazards discussed above. When in the laboratory, look for these non-chemical hazards (e.g. cryogenic materials, -80°C Freezer, autoclaves, ovens, etc.). If identified, interview the lab staff to determine if they have access to appropriate hand protection.