Petroleum skin care products under latex protective gloves

February 14, 1995

Mr. A. Robert Bogosian, President
Global Biotechnologies
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Mr. Bogosian:

This is in response to your letter of November 7, 1994, requesting the official policy regarding the Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1030, and the use of skin care products under latex gloves. Specifically you were interested in the use of mineral oil and other petroleum containing products and how these compounds affect the integrity of latex gloves.

During the rulemaking process, evidence was presented by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that latex surgical gloves showed significant deterioration when the gloves were exposed to petroleum-based lubricants. Based on this information, it is OSHA's position that if latex gloves are used, employees shall not apply petroleum-based, including mineral oil-based, skin care products.

We hope that this response addresses your concerns. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact [the Office of Health Enforcement at (202) 693-2190].

Sincerely,
Ruth McCully, Director
Office of Health Compliance Assistance

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[Corrected 12/6/2024]