Nitrile gloves have become more widely used recently. Therefore, users also need to pay attention to many factors to make the glove experience effective. Here are 5 things you need to know when using nitrile gloves. Let’s take a look at AIC (Advance International Corp) gloves.
Storing Nitrile Gloves the Correct Way
Nitrile gloves have a longer shelf life. If stored according to storage rules, they are safe to use for up to 5 years. Proper storage methods for nitrile gloves include:
– Do not leave nitrile gloves in areas exposed to UV rays or ozone for extended periods of time, including fluorescent lighting and some electrical equipment that generates ozone.
– Store the glove box in a cool place at a temperature below 30oC. Keep away from heat sources such as radiators or steam pipes.
– Do not remove the sealing strips on the glove box unless you are going to use the glove box. After opening the box, the gloves may be damaged and unusable even if not used.
How often should you switch to a new pair of gloves?
In fact, there are no studies showing the exact time to replace nitrile gloves. The composition and quality of the gloves hardly deteriorate over time. However, when the gloves show any signs of tears or punctures, you need to replace them with new ones immediately.
Additionally, when you switch between work tasks, such as testing or handling chemicals, it is necessary to change gloves to ensure accuracy. In addition, in some other operations, in order to reduce the risk of cross-contamination and ensure safety, gloves should be changed at least every 2 hours.
Choose the right glove size
Choose a glove size that fits your hands so they are easier to put on and take off. Additionally, well-fitting gloves will provide the wearer with comfort when working with gloves on for long periods of time. It also ensures the flexibility of manual operation. Remember, it’s a fitted fit, not wider or tighter.
In some cases, when standard measurements do not help you choose the right glove, hand length should take precedence. The gloves can be wider, but the length should be appropriate. If it is too long, the gloves will get stuck in tools and machines, affecting operation and even causing danger. As for hand width, nitrile gloves have a pretty good stretch and hugging ability to some extent. As long as the size isn’t too big, it won’t feel too uncomfortable.
Wash hands before and after wearing gloves
Wearing gloves does not completely replace the need to wash hands. Although gloves are considered as a barrier to protect our hands, keeping them clean and free from pathogens or infections. Wash and dry hands before wearing gloves. After taking off the gloves, you need to wash your hands with hand sanitizer or soap.
Watch out for skin irritation symptoms
Although nitrile gloves have a lower allergy rate to their ingredients. Nitrile gloves are made from nitrile rubber and do not contain latex proteins – the main cause of many allergic reactions. However, in some cases, overly sensitive skin may experience irritation when wearing gloves, possibly due to the rubber accelerators used in making nitrile gloves. Only people with extremely sensitive skin will be irritated by these substances.
Rubber accelerators used in the production process of nitrile gloves include thiurams, dithiocarbamates and mercaptobenzothiazoles. These can be the main causes of redness or itchiness on exposed skin. When these symptoms occur, discontinue use, remove gloves and wash hands immediately with soap and water. If symptoms do not resolve, you should consult a dermatologist for treatment recommendations.
