Chemical glove performance: A case study on malathion use in Mediterranean fruit fly control

Abstract

The use of gloves to protect against dermal exposure to chemicals often gives rise to assumptions about the suitability and service life of the gloves. However, recent literature has highlighted the need to establish data on the actual performance of the gloves under field conditions. In this case study of polyvinyl chloride gloves used when applying the pesticide malathion, work practices and glove usage patterns were documented for 27 workers during a fruit fly outbreak. Laboratory tests on new and used glove sections at different pesticide strengths and temperatures were conducted. There was a marked effect from temperature, as well as measurable reductions in glove thickness with use, which correlated with reduced malathion breakthrough times and increased permeation rates. Left and right gloves showed some differences in palm thickness after extended use. There was evidence of poor work practices leading to glove contamination, which may be related to increased skin symptoms compared with a control group. These data emphasise the need to assess glove performance under representative conditions, and to improve work practices involving gloves.