Posted By Steph Hello all. Have any of you had experience of 'Anti Syringe' Gloves? Our staff occasionally come across a discarded used needle which they must collect using a grab stick into a sharps box. Staff are trained in this task and also required to wear appropriate foootwear when doing this. There is no history of accident/injury using this method. One manager has requested that he buy these gloves for his team, saying that they are easier to use. He is concerned that staff may drop the needle using the stick, which he says won't happen with the gloves. I disagree, but want to get users' feedback before making an informed decision. I've revisited the risk assessment and watched the staff doing the task, and I can't see any reason to move to the gloves. Looking at the gloves, they do appear quite cumbersome and I wonder how easy it is to pick up a needle; but I haven't used them. I understand that some local authorities use the gloves, and wonder if this is to encompass all sharp items the refuse collectors may come across; I've asked our local council for advice but am waiting ...... I'd welcome your comments. Thanks, Stephanie

Posted By Ian Blenkharn I have done quite a lot of work on, and published extensively about limitations of PPE and other approaches to managing sharps, for sharps users and those involved in waste management. I have also dealt with injury claims and related cases for the Courts. There are of course many pros and cons to the situation that you describe, and no doubt much more information that may be relevant that space does not allow you to provide, or me to consider here. Feel free to get in touch if you want to take this further. Email address at the head of this message, or give me a call on 0208 569 8316

Posted By peter gotch Hi Steph Last time I sourced suitable gloves [several years ago] they were £165 per pair, albeit we would have got a discount. Grab sticks MUCH cheaper and I agree with Chris probably more effective control measure. Regards, Peter

Posted By Robert K Lewis Just as a comment - why not use disposable forceps? In my experience most people find them easier to manipulate and there are no issues of sterilisation after use. Bob

Posted By OBee Same problem. Grab sticks are best in my opinion, less contact the better!

Posted By warwick.jones One other thought... We advocate the use of litter pickers rather than the over sized tweezers/forceps because if the needle and syringe does slip out your hands and feet are further away and less likely to be stuck by the needle - syringes have been known to jump out of the grips akin to picking up a bar of soap etc! Regards Warwick