Glove Intelligent Assistant
07.17.2025
Handling chemotherapy drugs requires strict safety measures—not only for the patients receiving treatment but also for the healthcare professionals preparing and administering these hazardous drugs. These medications are lifesaving, but they are also highly toxic and pose serious risks if not handled with proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
Chemotherapy drugs are classified as hazardous because they can cause acute and long-term health effects such as skin irritation, reproductive problems, organ toxicity, and even secondary cancers (NIOSH, 2024). Exposure can occur through skin contact, inhalation of aerosols, or accidental spills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 8 million U.S. healthcare workers were potentially exposed to hazardous drugs or their waste in 2011. Long-term data, including studies from Skov et al. (1992) and Valanis et al. (1993), showed an elevated risk of adverse health outcomes from repeated exposure—even with limited contact.
To reduce these risks, the U.S. Pharmacopeia’s USP <800> guidelines outline required practices for safe handling, including the use of PPE like gloves that are tested according to ASTM D6978 for resistance to chemotherapy drugs. Additionally, gloves used for this purpose must be tested specifically against drugs listed by NIOSH as hazardous (2024), which includes:
Carmustine, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Etoposide, Fluorouracil, Paclitaxel, ThioTEPA, Bleomycin, Carboplatin, Cisplatin, Cytarabine, Dacarbazine, Daunorubicin, Docetaxel, Gemcitabine, Idarubicin, Ifosfamide, Irinotecan, Mechlorethamine, Melphalan, Methotrexate, Mitomycin, Mitoxantrone, Vincristine.
Gloves that meet ASTM D6978 standards and are tested against these specific drugs are suitable for USP <800> compliance in chemotherapy drug handling environments.
We offer several options in our catalog for customers needing chemotherapy-rated gloves.
MegaMan® MM-11BK is a durable nitrile exam glove with multilayer construction and SW’s DriTek® lining, which helps reduce sweat buildup during extended wear. It’s tested against chemotherapy drugs and provides strong abrasion and puncture resistance.
PowerForm® PF-12TL features a 12-inch cuff for extended wrist protection. It’s fentanyl-resistant, chemo-tested, and made with EcoTek® sustainable nitrile, ideal for environmentally conscious users.
TrueForm® TF-95RB provides a soft, form-fitting feel, perfect for precision work in labs or clinical settings. It’s tested for use with chemotherapy drugs and includes EcoTek® for sustainable disposal.
TrueForm® TF-12LG offers comfort with a longer cuff for added protection. It’s chemo-tested, silicone-free, and suited for extended use in healthcare settings.
PowerForm® PF-95TL balances comfort and protection. It’s fentanyl-resistant, chemotherapy-rated, and made with EcoTek® without compromising performance.
PowerForm® PF-95GW features SW’s EnerGel® technology to reduce hand fatigue and manage moisture. It’s tested against chemotherapy drugs, ideal for long shifts and sensitive handling tasks.
PowerForm® PF-95GY brings a modern gray look while offering chemotherapy-rated protection. It’s flexible, textured for grip, and made with EcoTek® to meet both safety and sustainability goals.
PowerChem® PC-95GR is made of 100% neoprene and offers protection against both chemotherapy drugs and latex sensitivities. This glove is powder-free to minimize contamination and features an ergonomic fit for comfort over long use. It’s chemo-tested under ASTM D6978 and ideal for users who require both performance and latex-free materials.
Choosing gloves that comply with USP <800> and are tested against the NIOSH 2024 list is essential for ensuring staff safety in pharmacies, infusion centers, hospitals, and labs. Gloves that haven’t been tested against chemotherapy drugs may still allow permeation of hazardous chemicals, leading to long-term occupational health risks.
All chemotherapy-rated gloves from SW are tested following ASTM D6978, meet FDA requirements for medical exam gloves, and offer additional safety features like fentanyl resistance, extended cuffs, and silicone-free formulations. Many also feature EcoTek®, our proprietary sustainable nitrile technology, helping users meet environmental goals without sacrificing protection.
At SW, we are committed to leading the glove industry in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Our innovative EcoTek® technology exemplifies our dedication to sustainable solutions, while our expertise in sweat management ensures comfort and performance. We also offer specialized chemical compatibility support, assisting customers in selecting gloves tailored to their unique needs. Our mission is to provide products that prioritize safety, health, and environmental responsibility for our customers and the planet