In order to make the most of your glove use, and minimize the spread of bacteria on all accounts, here are some easy and basic ways to keep your gloves and your workspace free of bacteria.
- All Disposable Gloves Go to the Trash
If you use disposable gloves on a regular basis, which medical professionals do, they should go immediately into the trash can after use. Disposable gloves are meant to be used one time, for one task. They protect the wearer from bacteria and potential hazards, but they are not able to be cleaned, so they can easily spread bacteria if they are not disposed of properly.
Another important thing to remember about using disposable gloves is how to remove them properly, in order to eliminate any further contamination to the wearer. Disposable gloves should be removed in such a way that the exterior of the glove is folded in on itself. Consider holding a brief training for employees to teach them this easy and safe way of removing their gloves. And of course, ensure that your employees are always putting on a new pair of gloves when they move onto a new patient or task so that bacteria is stopped.
- Wash Gloves on a Regular Basis
If you work in an industry that uses work gloves, as opposed to disposable gloves, on a regular basis, you are at risk of bacteria as well. No matter what industry you work in, whether its construction or automotive, bacteria can be picked up on your gloves and remain there for long periods of time.
Since many work gloves are washable, the easiest way to minimize the spread of bacteria is to wash your gloves. The tricky thing is though, you can’t wash your gloves too much, otherwise the protective barrier found in the material your glove is made of will begin to wear down with each wash. Some work gloves can’t be washed at all, which should be indicated on the specific glove. In any case, you should find a way to wash your gloves on occasion to help rid your environment of bacteria.
- Dry and Airy
Most bacteria thrive in environments that are warm and damp. This means, you should store your gloves in the opposite type of environment; somewhere that is dry and has good air flow. Keeping them dry is the best way to mitigate the growth and spread of bacteria on your work gloves.
Although we will never be able to entirely wipe out bacteria, by following these three simple steps, you can help yourself and your employees minimize the risk of bacteria exposure.