Approximately 3 million workers in Canada come in contact with chemicals that can absorb through the skin. To help mitigate the risk to employees, gloves have become a critical element for worker safety. The Health and Safety Act requires employers to protect against hazards in the workplace. Gloves should be on the top of your list to comply with these regulations.
From chemical laboratories to foodservice, there is a wide range of industries that require disposable gloves on a regular basis. Here are some considerations you should make when purchasing gloves for your business:
- Only buy top-quality products; gloves are no exception.
- Ensure the manufacturer and the supplier are Health Canada certified.
- Buy the right glove for the right job. Your environment and tasks will dictate what type of glove you need. Choosing a suitable glove is essential.
MCL only works with quality-driven manufacturers. We are here to serve and support your needs. In many cases, people “overbuy” for what gloves they actually need. Just because nitrile is rated highest, does not necessarily mean that’s the right glove for the job. Always check with an MCL expert to ensure you are getting the highest value from the right glove for the job.
Disposable gloves typically fall into three categories: nitrile, vinyl and blended. Each offers unique benefits.
Nitrile Gloves / Vinyl Gloves
Nitrile, vinyl and a blend of nitrile/vinyl are the choices of most industries. They are durable, puncture-resistant and protect hands from chemical absorption. We carry an assortment of gloves and can help you choose the best option for your workplace.
Helpful Glove Terms
In addition to what the glove is made from, many other factors contribute to the overall effectiveness or desirability. Sometimes these qualities can be confusing, so here are a few terms to watch for:
Powdered/Powder-Free
Powdered gloves make them easy to get on, making them a convenient option. Typically, they are lubricated with cornstarch to decrease the chance of irritation. Powder-free gloves reduce the cause of allergens and are cleaner to use as they don’t leave residue behind. Powder-free is typically preferred for surgeries and delicate procedures.
Examination/Surgical
Exam gloves are medical-grade and are used when dealing with bodily fluids like blood tests, patient examinations or managing incontinence. Surgical gloves meet higher criteria standards, offering precise sizing and high tactile sensitivity. These gloves are in sterile packaging and used by surgeons and OR nurses.
Chemo Gloves
Chemo gloves are safe to use with chemotherapy drugs. It is crucial to select a glove tested for the specific drug being used to ensure protection.
Food Grade
Food grade gloves are certified to use in preparing food in restaurants or food production facilities.
Mil
The thickness of gloves is measured in millimeters and typically ranges between 0.2 - 13.0 mils.
Other Options
There are several other factors to consider when choosing suitable gloves. What finish is best for your environment? Smooth? Partially textured? Or fully textured? What style would work best for your employees? Would they prefer an extended cuff for better coverage and protection? Or a rolled cuff for easy removal?
When purchasing gloves, be sure the manufacturing factory is Health Canada Certified and a credible and established distributor with a Medical Device Establishment License (MDEL). The individual packaging should be appropriately certified for use in Canada. And, of course, gloves should never replace the best option of washing your hands.
If you have additional questions about selecting the best gloves, call our customer service team: 1-800-430-9555. They are knowledgeable and ready to help you make the ideal choice.