Glove resistance to permeation by a 7.5% hydrogen peroxide sterilizing anddisinfecting solution

Background: This study evaluated 6 types of glove materials for resistance to permeation by a 7.5% hydrogen peroxide liquid chemical germicide. Methods: Based on American Society for Testing and Materials Method F739-96 , a small piece of glove material was placed in the center of a dual chambe r test cell. The challenge and collection chambers of the test cell were fi lled with the hydrogen peroxide test chemical and the collecting medium (de ionized water), respectively. Chemical permeation was determined by measuri ng the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the collection medium at vario us time intervals. Results: Both the polyvinylchloride and disposable latex examination gloves at 4.5 mil thickness provided less than 30 minutes of protection from hydr ogen peroxide. The natural rubber latex glove at 16.5 mil lasted for 8 hour s without any detectable penetration. Neoprene (15 mil) and nitrile butyl r ubber (18 mil) both provided excellent protection throughout the 8-hour tes t period. Conclusion: Disposable latex examination gloves should be used for short-te rm exposure to hydrogen peroxide solutions. Thicker rubber latex gloves pro vided adequate protection and necessary dexterity for conducting intricate tasks. The level of protection depends largely on the thickness and quality of the glove material.