What kind of gloves are suitable for handling dry ice?

Handling dry ice can be a dangerous task if proper safety measures are not taken. Dry ice, also known as solid carbon dioxide, is extremely cold and can cause skin damage and frostbite if handled without protection.

That's why it's crucial to wear safety gloves that are specifically designed for handling dry ice. In this blog, we will discuss the different types of gloves that are suitable for handling dry ice and why each of these gloves is an excellent choice.

Key Takeaways:

1. Dry Ice Handling: Use specialised gloves to prevent frostbite and skin damage.
2. Recommended Gloves: Options include cryogenic, thermal, leather, and rubber gloves, each offering different levels of insulation and flexibility.
3. Dry Ice Properties: It's solid carbon dioxide at -78.5 °C, used for cooling and special effects, and sublimates directly from solid to gas.
4. Safety Measures: Store dry ice in ventilated areas and handle with care.
5. Injury Statistics: In the UK, there were six dry ice-related incidents with three injuries in 2019/20.
6. Key Advice: Choose gloves based on material and handling duration; complement with appropriate workwear.

OAKEYS Safety's best safety glove options further down in the blog!

1. Cryogenic Gloves:
   
   Cryogenic gloves are specially designed for handling dry ice and other extremely cold materials. They are made of materials such as neoprene or nitrile, which provide insulation and protection against the cold. Neoprene and nitrile are both synthetic rubber materials that are durable and flexible, making it easy to handle dry ice even with gloves on. The gloves also come in different thicknesses, so you can choose the one that provides the right amount of insulation for your needs.
   
2. Thermal Safety Gloves:
   
   Thermal safety gloves are an excellent choice for handling dry ice as they are made of materials that provide excellent insulation against cold temperatures. They are often made of materials such as fleece or Thinsulate, which provide a warm, comfortable fit. Thermal gloves are great for individuals who are handling dry ice for extended periods, as they keep your hands warm and protected against the cold.
   
3. Leather Gloves:
   
   Leather gloves are a great choice for handling dry ice, as leather is a durable and resistant material. They provide good insulation and protection against the cold, but they may not be as flexible as other options, so handling dry ice with them may be more difficult. Leather gloves are a good choice for individuals who are handling dry ice in small quantities, as they provide the right amount of protection without being too bulky.
   
4. Rubber Gloves:
   
   Rubber gloves are a common choice for handling dry ice, as they provide good insulation and protection against the cold. However, they may not be as durable as other options and may become brittle in extremely cold temperatures. Rubber gloves are an excellent choice for individuals who are handling dry ice for short periods, as they provide the necessary protection without the need for extended durability.
   

Best Gloves for dry ice

What actually is dry ice?

Dry ice is a solid form of carbon dioxide, a colourless, odourless gas that makes up about 0.04% of the Earth's atmosphere. At standard atmospheric pressure and temperature, carbon dioxide exists as a gas, but it can be converted to a solid form by lowering its temperature to -78.5 °C (-109.3 °F).

Dry ice is commonly used as a cooling agent because it has a temperature of -78.5 °C, which is much colder than regular ice. It is also used for special effects in the entertainment industry and for shipping perishable goods that need to be kept frozen.

Unlike regular ice, dry ice doesn't melt into a liquid when it warms up. Instead, it undergoes a process called sublimation, where it transitions directly from a solid to a gas. This means that dry ice can create a fog-like effect when it is placed in water or another liquid.

It's important to handle dry ice with care because it can be extremely cold and can cause frostbite if it comes into contact with skin. It should always be stored in a well-ventilated area, and never in a sealed container, as the build-up of carbon dioxide gas could cause an explosion.

More on what dry ice is

Statistics around dry ice related injuries

the UK HSE, there were six reported incidents involving dry ice in 2019/20, resulting in three injuries. These incidents involved the use of dry ice for cooling purposes, including the transportation of food and medical products.

It is important to note that these statistics may not represent the total number of dry ice related injuries in the UK, as not all incidents may be reported to the HSE. Additionally, the severity of injuries resulting from dry ice exposure can vary widely depending on the circumstances of the incident, and may not always be recorded as specifically related to dry ice.

HSE has guidance in terms of how to handle dry ice safely here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when handling dry ice, it's essential to choose gloves that are specifically designed for this purpose or gloves that are made of materials that provide excellent insulation and protection against the cold. With the right gloves, you can handle dry ice safely and effectively, reducing the risk of skin damage and frostbite.

When choosing gloves, it's also important to consider factors such as the thickness of the gloves, the materials they are made of, and the length of time you will be handling dry ice. With these factors in mind, you can choose the right gloves for your needs and ensure a safe and comfortable experience when handling dry ice.

When working in a cold environment it is essential to make sure you have the right workwear and PPE to work alongside your gloves, products like the Rockfall Alaska Freezer boot is a great addition to your gear.

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1. What is dry ice? Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide, with a temperature of -78.5 °C, commonly used for cooling and creating fog effects.
2. Why is handling dry ice potentially dangerous? Dry ice can cause skin damage and frostbite due to its extreme cold temperature.
3. What types of gloves are recommended for handling dry ice? Suitable gloves include cryogenic, thermal, leather, and rubber gloves, each offering varying levels of insulation and flexibility.
4. Can dry ice melt into liquid? No, dry ice sublimates directly from solid to gas without becoming liquid.
5. How should dry ice be stored to ensure safety? Store dry ice in well-ventilated areas to prevent explosion risks and avoid skin contact to prevent frostbite.
6. What are the statistics on dry ice-related injuries? In the UK, there were six incidents and three injuries related to dry ice in 2019/20.
7. Are leather gloves a good choice for handling dry ice? Yes, leather gloves are durable and provide good insulation, but they offer less flexibility compared to other materials.
8. What is the role of glove thickness in handling dry ice? Glove thickness affects the level of insulation and protection against the cold, as well as the handler's dexterity.
9. Is it necessary to use other protective wear besides gloves when handling dry ice? Yes, complementing gloves with appropriate workwear and PPE, like freezer boots, is advised for overall safety in cold environments.
10. What are the best practices for handling dry ice safely? Always use appropriate gloves, store dry ice correctly, and be aware of the risks of frostbite and explosion due to gas build-up.