ABSTRACT

I. Introduction 419

II. Hazards to Hands and Their Effects 420

A. Chemicals 420

1. Occupational Dermatoses and Caustic Skin Disorders 420

2. Percutaneous Absorption of Hazardous Substances 420 B. Mechanical and Physical Damage 421

C. Biologic Agents 421

III. General Aspects of the Choice and Use of Gloves 421

A. Analysis of Hazards 421

B. Chemical, Physical, and Mechanical Resistance of Gloves 421

C. Assessment of the Appropriateness of Gloves 422

D. Assessment of the User’s Individual Characteristics 422

IV. Types of Gloves 423

A. Classification According to General Construction 423

B. Classification According to Thickness and Intended Use 423

V. Glove Materials 423

A. Rubbers and Plastics (Polymers) 423 B. Leather 424

C. Textiles 424

D. Special Materials 425

VI. Choice of Gloves for Protection against Chemical Hazards 425

A. General Aspects 425

B. Rules and Regulations 425

C. Permeability of Gloves 426

VII. Choice of Gloves for Protection against Mechanical and Physical Hazards

VIII. Problems in Glove Usage and Their Prevention 430

A. Problems Encountered in the Use of Gloves 430

B. Prevention 430

IX. Summary 432

References 432

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I. INTRODUCTION

The hands are frequently exposed to environmental hazards. The elimination of numerous hazards would be the most effective way to prevent their noxious effects, but this is often impracticable. Personal hand protection, the use of gloves in particular, is then necessary in both the work environment and at home or during hobbies.