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Utility gloves
Also called: heavy-duty gloves, chemical-resistant gloves, cleanup gloves
Thick reusable gloves for cleaning instruments, rooms and chemicals.
Utility gloves are thick, puncture-resistant and chemical-resistant gloves worn for instrument processing, operatory cleanup and handling chemicals. Exam gloves are too thin for those jobs. Utility gloves can be cleaned and reused, but OSHA says to throw them away when they crack, peel, tear or puncture.
How to spot it
- Thick rubber or nitrile gloves, often a bright color, longer than exam gloves.
What it is used for
- Wear for cleaning instruments, changing ultrasonic solution, surface disinfection and spill cleanup.
- Wash and disinfect them after use and store them to dry.
Safety and care
- Check for holes and cracks before each use.
- For glutaraldehyde and similar sterilants, use gloves the product's SDS lists as chemical resistant.
Related
Sources: CDC. Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Health-Care Settings, 2003. MMWR 2003;52(RR-17), OSHA. Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1030