When disposable gloves are used continuously for a single task, how often should they be changed?

• A. After 4 hours of continuous use
• B. At least every 4 hours
• C. Only when torn
• D. Every 8 hours

Answer: (B)

Glove use is about keeping a reliable barrier between hands and food. As you wear disposable gloves for a continuous task, moisture, sweat, and residues can accumulate and tiny, even invisible, tears can develop, increasing the chance of contaminating surfaces or food. To maintain protection, change gloves at least every four hours during continuous use, and sooner if they become visibly soiled or torn or if you switch tasks or handle different types of food (especially after raw to ready-to-eat). Waiting until a fixed later time or only changing when torn doesn’t address the ongoing risk, and eight hours is too long. So, the best practice is to change at least every four hours.