Chemical Resistant Gloves

Chemical-resistant gloves

Chemical-resistant gloves protect against splash, immersion, and vapour exposure across laboratory, cleaning, manufacturing, and chemical-handling environments. The right choice depends on three factors: the specific chemical (not a generic "chemicals" label), the exposure duration, and whether the task involves splash or full immersion.

Material by chemical family

• Nitrile — the default for solvents, oils, fuels, and most industrial cleaners. Good abrasion resistance and grip.
• Neoprene — broader chemical resistance than nitrile, particularly against acids, bases, and alcohols.
• Butyl — best-in-class against gases, esters, and ketones. Specialist use.
• PVC — economical choice for acids and bases, limited on solvents. Good for short-duration splash work.
• Natural rubber (latex) — dilute acids and bases, water-based chemicals. Allergy risk; use nitrile alternatives where possible.

Permeation vs. degradation

Two separate tests matter: degradation (does the glove material break down on contact?) and permeation (does the chemical pass through the glove at a molecular level?). A glove can look perfectly intact while chemicals are already permeating through. Always check the manufacturer's permeation chart — the breakthrough time for your specific chemical is the number to act on.

Length & cuff style

For splash, gauntlet-length (300–450mm) is standard and protects the forearm. For immersion, elbow-length (450mm+) with a rolled cuff prevents drips tracking down the inside of the glove. Short-cuff gloves are only appropriate for brief, dry handling of low-risk chemicals.

When to pair with other PPE

Chemical gloves are one component of a splash kit. For face and eye protection, see our sealed goggles and faceshields. Respiratory protection for volatile chemicals is covered by our respiratory range.

Standards & compliance

Gloves in this range are certified to AS/NZS 2161.10.1 (protection against chemicals and microorganisms) and EN 374 series — EN 374-1 for chemical resistance with a six-letter code identifying which chemicals were tested, EN 374-2 for microorganism resistance, and EN 374-4 for permeation by chemical classes. Check the marking on the glove itself against the hazard profile before deploying.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use one pair for multiple chemical tasks?

Only if every chemical involved has a long breakthrough time on that glove material. Cross-contamination between tasks is a common failure — a glove that handles solvent A well may fail on solvent B. If tasks shift, change gloves.

How do I know when to replace chemical gloves?

Replace on any sign of material change — swelling, stiffening, discolouration, sticky residue, or loss of elasticity. For critical chemicals, rotate pairs daily regardless of visible condition. Permeation is invisible; conservative replacement is the correct default.

Are chemical gloves cut-resistant?

Generally no — chemical gloves prioritise barrier protection, not cut protection. For tasks involving both hazards (e.g., chemical handling around blades or sharp edges), choose a cut-lined chemical glove or layer a cut sleeve underneath.

Do you offer trade or bulk pricing?

Yes — trade accounts get 5% off RRP, and bulk discounts apply at carton quantities. Apply for a trade account →