Proper Hand Protection and Chemical Gloves
The Problem
Chemicals on worksites pose serious risks to your hands, ranging from minor skin irritations such as dermatitis to severe chemical burns or long-term health effects like cancer. Choosing the wrong gloves—or failing to wear the correct ones—can result in dangerous exposure. Today, we’ll identify the hazards, explain how to choose the right chemical-resistant gloves, and discuss what to do if your gloves fail or new chemicals are introduced.
Identify the Hazards
Chemical Exposure Risks:
- Minor skin irritation (redness, dermatitis).
- Serious harm (chemical burns or skin absorption that may affect internal organs).
- Long-term effects (including skin cancer or systemic health conditions).
Incorrect Glove Selection:
- Using the wrong material for a chemical may provide no protection.
- Example: Rubber gloves may resist acetone but break down rapidly in xylene.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Choose the Correct Gloves:
- Glove materials include nitrile, latex, butyl, neoprene, and rubber.
- Always confirm glove material compatibility with the specific chemical.
- Example: Rubber gloves are suitable for acetone, but not xylene.
Use Reference Resources:
- Glove manufacturer chemical resistance charts.
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS) — legally required in Canada and provided by the supplier.
- Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) guidance on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Action:
- Always review these resources before starting a task involving hazardous substances.
Report Concerns Immediately:
- Stop work and notify your supervisor if gloves deteriorate or feel ineffective.
- If a new chemical is introduced, request a reassessment of PPE requirements.
Regular PPE Assessments:
- Your employer should regularly review PPE requirements to ensure compatibility with workplace chemicals.
- Reassessments must occur if new substances or processes are introduced.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On a site using solvents, a worker wore standard rubber gloves while handling xylene. Within minutes, the gloves failed, and the worker suffered chemical burns to their hands. This incident could have been prevented by checking the SDS and confirming glove compatibility beforehand.
Employee Responsibilities
- Verify that gloves are suitable for the chemicals being handled.
- Inspect gloves for tears, wear, or degradation before each use.
- Stop work and report if glove failure occurs or a new chemical is introduced.
- Follow safety procedures and training related to PPE use.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide suitable chemical-resistant gloves for all tasks involving hazardous substances.
- Carry out and update PPE risk assessments regularly.
- Make chemical compatibility data and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) readily available.
- Train staff in correct glove use, care, and selection.
Discussion & Questions
- Are there any concerns about the gloves currently used on site?
- Have any new chemicals been introduced that might require a different glove type?
- Has anyone experienced glove failure or irritation while using gloves?
- Do you know how to check the SDS for glove compatibility?
Encourage workers to share feedback and suggestions.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to checking our gloves before each shift, using the correct gloves for the task, and reporting any concerns. If unsure about chemical compatibility, consult the SDS or supervisor before beginning work.
Wrap-Up
Your gloves are your first line of defence against chemical exposure. Always take a few moments to confirm you’re using the right gloves for the job. It’s a simple step that could prevent long-term harm. Thanks for staying safe and vigilant.
Standards Overview
Under Canadian workplace health and safety legislation, employers and organizations must identify risks from hazardous substances and provide appropriate PPE, including hand protection.
- Gloves must be selected based on compatibility with the chemicals used and maintained in good condition.
- Workers must be trained to use PPE correctly and report any issues immediately.
These requirements align with guidelines from the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and applicable provincial regulations.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
Participants are strongly encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals regarding specific workplace concerns or questions. Always adhere to your organisation’s policies and procedures for health and safety and hazard management.
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