VivianLea,
Nitrile are the preferred alternative to latex. This is precisely the
reason why we chose nitrile instead of latex, due to the fact that
there are many people who have this severe allergy. In addition, I
understand that one can develop an allergy after years of using them.
After a visit to my dentist as well as undergoing periodic random
searches by Alaska Airlines security, I figured out that most people
are using the nitrile gloves. They provide excellent grip when handling
slippery things like polished full walrus tusks and allow us to handle
objects and work on the computer while cataloging, etc., without having
to keep taking them off and putting them on again. They also prevent
the transfer of perspiration, as David described as an issue with
cotton.

Now, to determine whether they are chemically approved...

Angela

On Sep 9, 2004, at 7:50 AM, VivianLea Stevens wrote:

> A related question - are the nitrile gloves the same as latex gloves?
> As one who has a severe latex allergy, they are not an option for
> me...and I'm guessing for many folks.  Might want to keep some plain
> cotton gloves on hand in case you hit someone with a
> sensitivity/allergy.
>
> VivianLea Stevens
> Curator
> Old Barracks Museum
> 609-396-1776
> www.barracks.org
>
>
Angela J. Linn
Collections Manager, Ethnology & History
University of Alaska Museum of the North
907 Yukon Drive
P.O. Box 756960
Fairbanks, AK 99775-6960
TEL: (907) 474-1828
FAX: (907) 474-5469
www.uaf.edu/museum

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