Which type of gloves should be avoided when conducting lead risk assessments?

The use of powder gloves should be avoided when conducting lead risk assessments because the powder can create airborne particles that may interfere with both the assessment process and the safety of the environment being evaluated. This type of glove, typically made from latex or another material, is dusted with a powder that can easily become aerosolized and contribute to contamination in environments where lead dust may already be present.

In contrast, other types of gloves such as latex, nitrile, and vinyl do not typically have powder on them, making them safer for use in environments where minimizing dust and contamination is critical. Nitrile gloves, for instance, are often preferable for their chemical resistance and durability, while vinyl gloves can offer a more cost-effective option when chemical exposure is less of a concern. The focus during lead risk assessments is to maintain as sterile and lead-free an environment as possible, which is compromised by the use of powder gloves.