Nitrile gloves have become a standard in the “glove world.” They have offered many benefits over other types of gloves, like latex; the main benefit being their superior chemical resistance compared to latex gloves. So, if you’re in an environment with exposure to a wide range of substances, these are the gloves for you. Any field using potent disinfectants, corrosive substances, or potentially hazardous materials, all can benefit from the protective barrier nitrile gloves offer.
Nitrile gloves are also puncture-resistant which offers more hand protection in hazardous settings. Especially as a dental professional, working in someone's mouth! Picking up small sharp objects that have been in a mouth, and while you are doing your best to clean said mouth it's still an incredibly "dirty" place. Having puncture-resistant gloves will let you work confidently and focus on your task without worrying about the integrity of your glove. Nitrile gloves also come in various sizes and thickness levels, so you can have them super thin, but still protective while you're working.
While we compare nitrile to latex, we have to mention the biggest benefit that nitrile gloves offer over latex. What is that benefit you wonder? Well, nitrile gloves are latex-free and help reduce the risk of allergic reactions. The rise of latex allergies begged for a solution from those with latex sensitivities to be able to do their job comfortably. Now, nitrile gloves have become a staple choice for personal protective equipment (PPE), they’re a reliable shield against a wide range of irritants, pathogens, and chemicals.
Introduction to Nitrile Gloves
What are they?
Nitrile gloves are made from a synthetic rubber compound known as nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR). One of the key benefits is their high chemical resistance, making them perfect for environments with the exposure to chemicals.
The development and popularity of nitrile gloves came from the increasing number of allergies to latex. These allergy concerns needed to be addressed and nitrile answered the call.
They have become an essential form of PPE and are used in all sorts of industries to provide a reliable barrier against chemicals, pathogens, and irritants. Nitrile gloves have made a name for themselves in how versatile, durable, and customizable they are.
Nitrile Gloves History and Evolution
The history of nitrile gloves dates back to the 1990s, founded in 1953, when they were introduced as a safer alternative to latex gloves. Every industry has a turning point and this was hand protection’s point. Nitrile gloves quickly gained popularity for their hypoallergenic properties and excellent barrier protection against chemicals, pathogens, and irritants, setting a new standard for hand safety.
Since their inception, they have continued to push boundaries and manufacturers have made substantial improvements in their formulation. Like the introduction of textured fingertips to improve grip and dexterity.
Their evolution hasn't only focused on protective features, but also user comfort and preferences.
Nitrile gloves are available in a wide range of sizes, colors, and thickness levels to cater to diverse user needs. This gives anyone their best shot at finding gloves that fit and protect well without compromising on comfort.
Common Irritants Nitrile Gloves Protect Against
Nitrile gloves are designed to protect against a broad range of irritants, making them a great choice for various jobs. They protect against an array of substances, including weak acids, caustics, and some organic solvents.
However, just to note nitrile gloves are not recommended for use with highly corrosive chemicals, aromatic solvents, ketones, or acetates due to their composition. Strong acids or harsh solvents could compromise the integrity of the gloves and other hand protection should be used for safety.
During a study done it was found that females are more likely to develop symptoms when using latex gloves. Nitrile gloves have played a major role in the fight against protecting the hands on the outside, while not causing irritation on the inside to the skin.
By acting as a protective barrier between the skin and potentially hazardous substances, nitrile gloves help maintain health and safety standards.
Showing you care about not just protecting patients, but also your employees skin health
This promotes a secure working environment where your employees can carry out their duties without worrying about health risks to their hands.
Accelerator vs Accelerator-Free Nitrile Gloves Comparison
Accelerators are chemicals used in some nitrile gloves to speed up the curing process during manufacturing, this just means gloves are ready to use in a shorter time frame. I'm sure you've heard the saying "good things take time," and that's no different in the glove making process. The problem with these accelerators are they can lead to skin sensitivities or allergic reactions. Which, when you're trying to solve the skin sensitivity problem this isn't helpful. That's why accelerator-free nitrile gloves are designed specifically for those with sensitivities to accelerators, reducing the risk of skin irritations, allergic responses, or dermatitis.
In whatever setting you are in, if you are wearing gloves for an extended period of time, choosing accelerator-free gloves is important. These gloves not only provide protection against contaminants and chemicals but also reduce the likelihood of skin issues occurring from using gloves for a long time. The elimination of accelerators in these gloves caters to those with sensitive skin, and gives them a comfortable and safe experience while wearing gloves.
When deciding between accelerator and accelerator-free nitrile gloves, you have to consider skin sensitivities of your employees, the duration of glove wear, and the specific tasks they will be performing. Opting for accelerator-free nitrile gloves can improve the comfort and safety of your employees and show them you're looking out for their best interests also.
Nitrile gloves without accelerators aren't the only glove out there though that can help you or your employees with skin sensitivities. You could opt for an aloe infused type glove, or another type of glove called Posi-Prene (made from polychloroprene).
Nitrile Glove Durability and Longevity
Nitrile gloves are known for their outstanding durability, making them a reliable choice if you're going to be wearing gloves for a long time. So, what makes them so durable compared to latex? Nitrile gloves are made with a synthetic rubber material that provides a sturdier barrier against punctures and tears. Now when you’re dealing with sharp tools (or doing a particularly “bitey” examination) you won’t have to worry if your gloves will hold up.
You’re probably not thinking about how long gloves last, especially if you fly through a box, but just in case let’s talk about storage of gloves. You’ll want to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Remember, to also properly dispose of contaminated gloves to reduce the risk of cross-contamination and infection transmission.
Conclusion
So let’s wrap up everything we’ve learned about nitrile gloves! We’ve learned they play a huge role in workplace safety, and user comfort. You also now recognize the importance of accelerator vs accelerator-free, and how our gloves can help you to continue to provide the best for your practice.
Nitrile gloves are a reliable, cost-effective option when you rely on disposable gloves. They’re a more durable option due to the glove material they’re made with, and protect better against chemicals than latex. The benefit of nitrile over latex will still be a personal decision. Whatever glove works best for your business is the glove you should use!
Remember though gloves don't replace soap and water, wash your hands after dealing with patients or chemicals.
If you're ready to make the change to the right gloves for your practice, click to order now! We have nitrile and latex gloves to suit everyone in your practice.
