Latex Gloves Information

History of Latex Gloves

Latex gloves were invented by William Stewart Halsted. He was the head surgeon of John Hopkins Hospital. The earliest use of latex gloves is debated to be either 1889 or 1890. Latex gloves were first used in the medical community. They help protect the wearer from coming in direct contact of substances or germs that can make the nurse or other medical worker sick. Part of the reason for creating gloves was the sterilization of a doctor's hands could be harsh. Even before using gloves, some medical workers were using carbolic acid to sterlize their hands. Part of the reason that Halsted ended up using latex was because he needed a glove material that could be dipped in carbolic acid. The Goodyear Tire and Rubber company ended up being called upon to create something that could be used this way.

Disposable Latex Gloves

Disposable latex gloves were mass-produced in 1964 by Ansell Limited (formerly Pacific Dunlop Limited). 

Uses of Latex Gloves

To Avoid Direct Contact with Germs

Latex gloves are often used in the medical industry to avoid harmful viruses and other germs, especially during surgery. In the food industry, food handlers will wear latex gloves to avoid contaminating the food with their own germs.

To Avoid Contact with Harmful Chemicals

Mechanics, scientists and others may work in an environment where they may come in contact with harsh chemicals which can be minimized or elimanted by wearing latex gloves. Even overexposure to water is irritating, so dishwashers may wear gloves to reduce this.

To Prevent Injury from Rough Surfaces

Maids will wear latex gloves to avoid germs, but to also avoid getting splinters if they are dusting wood surfaces. Some surfaces may cut or chaffe the hands, especially if the hands are in continuous contact with them.

Common Wearers of Latex Gloves

• Mechanics
• Doctors
• Nurses
• Medical Workers in general
• Maids