Glove Bags & Glove Box Systems

Sometimes small pieces of ACM or PACM need to be handled by workers. In these cases, it is appropriate to use either a glove bag or a glove box system. A glove bag is a 60 x 60 inch impervious, plastic bag-like enclosure affixed around ACM. The bag contains glove-like appendages through which material and tools may be handled. The following are Cal/OSHA specifications for the use of glove bags, glove bag systems, or glove box systems:

• Glove bags must be made of six-millimeter-thick plastic and be seamless at the bottom.
• Each glove bag must be installed so that it completely covers the circumference of the pipe or other structure where work is to be done.
• Glove bags must be smoke-tested for any leaks before use.
• Glove bags may only be used once and may not be moved to other work locations.
• Glove bags cannot be used on surfaces with a temperature exceeding 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Before disposal, glove bags must be collapsed by using a HEPA vacuum to remove the air within them.

To learn more about Asbestos Awareness visit our Cal/OSHA Asbestos Awareness Online Training web page.