DATE:    7/18/96
Writer:  Dr. Bob Bellinger, (864) 656-5042
         Bob Polomski, (864) 656-2604

Choosing the Right Gloves for Pesticide Work

     Q:  I like to wear gloves whenever I use pesticides, but I
don't know what kind I should wear. Do you have any
recommendations?  
     A:  Although it never hurts to use more protection, you
should always wear at least the level of protection stated on the
pesticide label.  
     The best gloves to wear anytime the pesticide label says
rubber gloves are nitrile rubber or butyl rubber gloves which are
chemical-resistant. However, they can be fairly expensive. You
can buy them at some hardware stores and garden centers. Also,
some mail-order companies offer them.
     When you purchase gloves, get two pair. That way, if your
gloves become contaminated or leak while you are using them you
will have a clean pair ready for immediate protection.
     Latex (natural) rubber gloves, commonly available in 
supermarkets for dishwashing and household jobs, are acceptable
for using aerosols, dusts, and some wettable powders. Once used
for pesticides, however, do not wear these gloves for any other 
purpose, such as washing dishes or yard work.  
     Because latex gloves allow petroleum based liquids to pass 
through, do not wear them when using petroleum-based pesticides
(most liquid pesticides) or solvents, paint thinners, brush
cleaners, and some stains and finishes. They will quickly become 
brittle and crack.
           Medical or dental examination gloves, cotton, leather
or lined rubber gloves are never acceptable.
       Medical gloves are simply too thin and are not intended 
for protection from chemicals. Cotton offers no protection from
pesticides, especially liquids. Leather cannot be decontaminated
and the lining in rubber gloves will also become contaminated.
     Always wear gloves when you use pesticides. Put them on
before you open the container, and keep them on until you are
finished with the pesticide and have rinsed any application
equipment.
      Wash them off thoroughly with soap and water before you
take them off. Then wash your hands thoroughly. Store the gloves
and  any other protective equipment separately from your
pesticides or other chemicals.
     Remember, no gloves last forever. So check your gloves
before each use and replace them immediately  when you find a
leak.--- Bob Bellinger, Clemson University Cooperative Extension
Service entomologist; Bob Polomski, Clemson University      
Cooperative Extension Service consumer horticulturist.            
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     If you have gardening questions or comments, write 
to Agricultural News & Publications, A-101 Poole Agricultural
Center, Box 340311, Clemson University, Clemson, S.C. 29634-0311.
                               END