Proper Hand Protection and Chemical Gloves

PPE
English (NZ)

The Problem

Chemicals on work sites 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 New Zealand and provided by the supplier.
  • WorkSafe NZ 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

Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

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 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.

  • Make chemical compatibility data and SDS readily available.
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  • 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 the Health and Safety at Work (General Risk and Workplace Management) Regulations 2016, PCBUs must identify risks from hazardous substances and provide appropriate PPE, including hand protection.
  • Gloves must be selected based on compatibility with chemicals used and maintained in good condition.
  • Workers must be trained to use PPE correctly and report any issues immediately.

Disclaimer

These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.

The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.

It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.

The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.

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Last Updated:
April 28, 2025