When should gloves be decontaminated?

Decontaminating gloves after each use is essential for preventing cross-contamination and ensuring the safety of both the user and others. When gloves are exposed to contaminants, such as bodily fluids or hazardous substances, they can harbor pathogens or toxic materials. By decontaminating the gloves immediately after their use, you significantly reduce the risk of transferring these harmful agents to your skin, surfaces, or other individuals.

This practice is particularly important in settings like healthcare, laboratories, or any environment where hygiene is crucial. It ensures that residues from contaminants do not remain on the gloves when they are stored, disposed of, or reused, safeguarding public health. Therefore, the practice of decontaminating gloves after each use supports overall best practices in infection control and safety protocols.