ASTM D6978 sets the gold standard for chemotherapy-resistant gloves. Understand permeation testing, performance requirements, and how to ensure maximum protection against hazardous drugs.
Healthcare professionals — especially those in oncology, pharmacy compounding, infusion therapy, and surgical oncology — are frequently exposed to hazardous antineoplastic drugs. These drugs can be:
- Cytotoxic – damaging to healthy cells
- Mutagenic or carcinogenic – increasing the risk of cancer or genetic mutations
- Highly permeable – able to pass through standard gloves without detection
Even trace exposure can cause skin irritation, reproductive issues, or long-term health effects. Choosing the right gloves is therefore not optional — it’s essential for occupational safety.
ASTM D6978 – Standard Practice for Assessment of Resistance of Medical Gloves to Permeation by Chemotherapy Drugs
is the global gold standard for verifying that gloves can resist hazardous drug permeation.
Why is it necessary? Because standard gloves that meet regular medical standards (like ASTM D6319 or EN 455) do not guarantee protection against chemotherapy agents. ASTM D6978 specifically tests chemical permeation resistance to ensure safety in high-risk environments.
The test focuses on permeation — how quickly chemotherapy drugs can pass through glove material. Key testing elements include:
- Permeation Rate – Speed at which a drug penetrates the glove
- Breakthrough Time – Time before a drug first appears on the inner surface
- Multi-Drug Testing – Exposure to agents such as cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, paclitaxel, and cisplatin
- Performance Threshold – Must have a permeation rate of < 0.01 μg/cm²/min to pass
Gloves that meet ASTM D6978 offer significantly higher protection compared to standard medical gloves.
When selecting gloves for chemotherapy handling, keep these points in mind:
- Look for ASTM D6978 certification – it's the most reliable indicator of protection
- Choose the right material – nitrile or neoprene usually offer better resistance than natural latex
- Consider thickness and fit – balance dexterity and protection
- Use double-gloving – adds an extra safety layer in high-risk situations
- Check shelf life – gloves must be within their effective period for maximum integrity
At Mocare Health, our ASTM D6978-certified gloves are engineered for maximum safety and performance:
- Proven resistance against hazardous chemotherapy drugs
- Enhanced barrier integrity and chemical resistance
- Comfortable fit for precise handling
- Compliance with international safety standards
By choosing gloves that meet these rigorous standards, surgeons can perform with confidence, knowing they are safeguarded by reliable protection.
Protecting healthcare workers from chemotherapy exposure starts with ASTM D6978-certified gloves. These gloves:
- Provide verified protection against cytotoxic permeation
- Lower occupational exposure risk in oncology and pharmacy settings
- Ensure safety, confidence, and peace of mind for medical professionals
Pro Tip: Always check for “ASTM D6978 Tested” or “Chemotherapy Drug Permeation Resistant” on the glove packaging — this is your assurance of safety and compliance.