Disposable gloves can provide protection against splashes and incidental chemical contact. There are a variety of disposable gloves suitable for use in laboratories, but in general the surgical type nitrile gloves are the best choice for general lab usage. These gloves provide good chemical protection from a variety of organic and inorganic chemicals, latex gloves provide little chemical protection. If your work involves heavy contact or immersion in chemicals, or if the materials are extremely hazardous, you should choose a re-usable glove that is effective for the materials you will be using. Each of these properties must be considered when selecting chemically protective gloves.
Degradation appears as swelling, softening, cracking, or other change in appearance.
Degradation tests vary with each manufacturer and it is important to consult each manufacturer's glove chart. The permeation rate and breakthrough time are also provided by the manufacturer. Once a chemical has begun to diffuse into a glove, it will contimue to diffuse into the elastomer even after the chemical on the surface is removed because of the concentration gradient that develops within the protective glove. Extreme caution is advised when re-using any chemical protective clothing that has been exposed to highly toxic chemicals. All gloves should be inspected before and after each use, and periodically while in use.