Hand Protection

Appropriate hand protection must be used for laboratory work where there is a potential for hands to be exposed to a hazardous chemical or a physical hazard that could result in skin damage, chemical absorption, severe cuts or lacerations, abrasions, punctures, or harmful temperatures.   Please refer to the guidance and resources provided below to help determine appropriate hand protection for hazards present in the lab.

USE – Best Practices When Using Hand Protection

DETERMINE – Hazard Specific Recommendations for Hand Protection

SELECT – Please reference the recommended glove chart below for general recommendations when selecting gloves:

Glove TypeRecommendationExamples
Disposable Nitrile GlovesWork with biological or chemical hazards small amounts and incidental contact is expected. Disposable nitrile gloves should be replaced when contaminated.
Disposable Nitrile Gloves
Chemical Resistant GlovesWork with chemical hazards where a higher level of protection is required. Appropriate selection of glove material should be based off a manufacturers glove selection guide or in consultation with EHSS.
Butyl Rubber Gloves
Silver Shield Gloves

Polyvinyl Alcohol Gloves
Neoprene Gloves
Heat Resistant GlovesProvides protection (excluding liquids) up to 232 °C
Terry Cloth Gloves
Liquid Resistant and Temperature ResistantProvides protection up to 100 °C. Chemical protection compared to nitrile gloves.
Liquid Temperature Resistant
Flame Retardant GlovesProvides protection (excluding liquids) up to 232 °C. Additional protection if flames are present.
Terry Cloth Flame Retardant
Cryo-GlovesProvides protection (excluding liquids) down to -196 °C. No submersion protection provided.
Cryo-Gloves
Cut Resistant GlovesWorking with cut hazards
Leather Gloves