First Aid Gloves: Legal Requirements vs. Best Practices

Wearing gloves during first aid is strongly recommended by all major guidelines (Red Cross, AHA, OSHA) to protect both rescuer and victim from bloodborne pathogens. However, no universal law mandates glove use for lay rescuers in all jurisdictions.

Workplace Requirements

• OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) requires employers to provide gloves and ensure use for employees with occupational exposure.
• Many state workplace safety regulations mirror OSHA.

Good Samaritan Considerations

Lay rescuers are generally protected by Good Samaritan laws regardless of glove use, but gloves reduce infection risk and are standard of care.

Bottom Line

Always use gloves if available. If not, use improvised barriers (plastic bags, cloth) and wash hands thoroughly after.