A Comparison of the Bacterial Contamination of the Surface of Cleanroom Operators’ Garments following Donning with and without Gloves

Background Specialist cleanroom garments are a potential vector for transmission of microorganisms within these facilities. In order to maintain the low bioburden such clothing it has been perceived best practice operators dress wearing sterile gloves. However, efficacy glove use upon resultant bacterial contamination surface not previously evaluated. Aim To compare following their donning by dressing with or without Methods Following prior handwashing and systematic either no gloves, non-sterile nitrile gloves latex direct agar contact method was immediately undertaken test garment surfaces at 7 specific sites. incubation levels were suitably quantified. Findings Comparing growth displayed on plates used worn non–sterile significant difference observed between percentage displaying plates, from any sites tested. Conclusion Omission in line procedure process, may result modest economic environmental gain coupled slightly less burdensome procedure. this is reliant rigorous adherence protocol assessment associated risk factors.