Doctor wearing ASTM D6978 approved gloves and handing a chemo bagDoctor wearing ASTM D6978 approved gloves and handing a chemo bag

What is ASTM D6978 and Why Does it Matter?

In various workplaces such as hospitals, factories, and laboratories, the proper use of protective clothing is vital for safeguarding against hazardous substances. A significant aspect of ensuring the efficacy of these protective garments lies in adhering to a standardized set of guidelines known as ASTM D6978. Let’s explore this framework and comprehend its importance in maintaining workplace safety.

What is ASTM D6978?

ASTM D6978 is a set of rules created by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) to check how well protective clothing can stop chemicals from getting through. It outlines specific tests and criteria to evaluate the ability of protective clothing materials, like gloves and coveralls, to resist penetration by liquid chemicals. This standard ensures that the protective clothing used in various industries, such as healthcare and manufacturing, meets the necessary safety requirements to protect workers from chemical hazards.

How does ASTM D6978 Affect Gloves?

ASTM D6978 is widely used as an indicator of which disposable gloves are designed to protect best against chemical hazards. The standard provides specific guidelines for testing the resistance of gloves to permeation by liquid chemicals, and ensures their effectiveness in preventing chemical from seeping through and harming the wearer. By adhering to ASTM D6978, manufacturers can develop gloves that meet rigorous performance criteria, including breakthrough detection time, thus providing assurance of their ability to safeguard against chemical exposure. Compliance with ASTM D6978 not only ensures the reliability of protective gloves but also enhances workplace safety by minimizing the risk of chemical-related injuries or illnesses among workers.

What Other Products does ASTM D6978 Cover?

ASTM D6978 covers a variety of protective clothing beyond gloves, including coveralls, aprons, and other garments designed to shield individuals from chemical hazards. The standard encompasses a broad range of protective apparel utilized in diverse industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and research laboratories. By providing specific requirements and testing methods, ASTM D6978 ensures the effectiveness of protective clothing all across the US.

Where does ASTM D6978 Matter?

In environments where workers are exposed to chemical hazards, such as healthcare settings, industrial facilities, and research laboratories, adherence to ASTM D6978 is crucial for ensuring occupational safety and mitigating risks. ASTM D6978 also has a subsection that tests products effectiveness against Fentanyl Citrate and Chemotherapy, which is particularly important in the medical field.

Is ASTM D6978 an International Standard?

The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) is a US-based organization. However, its principles and guidelines are recognized and utilized internationally, particularly in industries where chemical safety and protective clothing are paramount concerns. While ASTM standards are widely adopted in the United States, other countries may have their own equivalent standards or may reference ASTM standards in their regulations and guidelines.

Reliable Protection: Choose GloveNation Gloves

At GloveNation, we prioritize safety and quality above all else. If you're in need of ASTM D6978 approved gloves that are safe for use with chemotherapy and Fetanyl Citrate, look no further than our Grape Grip Nitrile Exam Gloves. With GloveNation, you can trust that you're getting gloves that not only meet industry standards but also exceed expectations when it comes to performance and durability.