Use of Latex Gloves by U.S. Postal Workers

Latex gloves can provide a vital line of defense for mail handlers facing the threat of B. anthracis spores and other workplace hazards. As part of its tough protective measures, the U.S. Postal Service has made hand protection, such as latex gloves, standard safety equipment. In fact, the Postal Service purchases millions of pairs of disposable exam gloves for employees to use. Postal workers go through as many as four to five pairs of latex gloves a day handling envelopes, boxes and other packages.

Benefits of Using Latex Gloves
Latex gloves are an economical option and they also offer postal workers a number of other important benefits. Latex gloves provide the highest level of protective and effectively repel acids, alkalis and many other chemicals. The thickness and durability of latex gloves makes them resistant to tearing and puncturing. Also, they offer workers a great deal of elasticity and flexibility. The material provides a comfortable, contoured fit that makes it easy for workers to pick up and hold onto to letters, packages and other objects.

Tips for Wearing Latex and Other Gloves
The Center for Disease Control advises all postal workers to wear "protective, impermeable" gloves when handling mail. Here are some additional guidelines

1. Latex gloves or other highly protective gloves should be provided in a variety of sizes to ensure a proper fit.
2. Workers can wear cotton gloves under their protective latex gloves for comfort and to prevent dermatitis.
3. Employees may wear different gloves or layers of gloves, depending on the task, dexterity required, and level of protection needed. For example, protective latex gloves can be worn under heavier leather or cotton gloves for tasks where gloves can easily be torn or if more protection against hand injury is needed.
4. When wearing gloves, workers should avoid touching their skin, eyes, or other mucous membranes, since contaminated gloves may transfer B. anthracis spores to other parts of the body.
5. Workers should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water when removing and replacing worn latex gloves.

Postal workers face potential hazards when handling mail, but latex gloves can and do provide effective protection in the work environment.

DonTheGlove.com sells all sizes of latex gloves, good for use in the automotive industry as well as in other industrial settings.