Pesticide handling is a precise yet dangerous process. The key to finding the right glove for the job is knowing what to look for in both material composition and design, so you can safely prioritize precision. Here are a few important points to consider.
The most common type of gloves for pesticides is butyl or nitrile. Some of these are reusable, while others are designed to be disposed of after a single-use. The option you choose will also be directly related to the type of pesticide you’re using, but they should always be chemical resistant and suited to the specific type of pesticide you’re handling. For example, latex works for dry formulations but won’t protect against liquid pesticides because they’re relatively permeable. Nitrile and PVC gloves offer excellent protection against both liquid and dry chemicals because they’re less permeable.
The last glove material you ever want to use when handling pesticides is cotton or leather. These materials absorb the chemicals you’re handling and hold them close to your skin for extended periods.
If you’re using regular work gloves, they likely end at your wrist or the middle of your forearm. When handling pesticides, however, you should tuck the gloves into a long-sleeve shirt or choose gloves that go up to your elbow to provide maximum splash protection.
You may also want additional features that make your gloves easier to use. Gloves that lack a liner are easier to remove, and you don’t risk having the contaminated outer portions touching your skin or clothing. You may also want waterproof designs, especially if you’re working around a lot of water—even if your gear is built for pesticides, they may not be completely resistant to submersion in liquids.
Choose your gloves based on the specific task at hand, and you’ll have a safer and better work experience.