Disposable gloves should be worn at all times and appear to be the only type of protective clothing that most practitioners consistently wear when handling cytotoxic drugs. Polovich and Clark ([193]) state that 95% of nurses routinely wear gloves when handling hazardous materials. No type of glove is completely impermeable to every cytotoxic agent and there is no consensus as to which glove material offers the best protection (Weinstein and Hagle [265]). The key points to consider when selecting gloves are the main factors that affect permeation rates, including glove thickness, lipophilicity, the nature of the solvent in which the cytotoxic drug is dissolved and glove material composition (Ferguson and Wright [74], Polovich et al. [194]). Using poor‐quality low‐cost gloves is neither safe nor cost‐effective. The risk of allergic reactions to latex and powdered medical gloves has been well documented in recent years. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE [105]) has issued advice on the use of these types of gloves. Powder‐free gloves should be used for handling cytotoxic drugs and should be inspected for any defects before use. Gloves should be changed after 30 minutes during each work session or at the end of a work session and immediately if contaminated with cytotoxic agent or punctured (Polovich [192]). The use of gloves made of other material, such as nitrile, provides protection when dealing with a cytotoxic spill. Double gloving is recommended when reconstituting cytotoxic drugs (Polovich et al. [194], Polovich [192], Weinstein and Hagle [265]).

The literature supports the use of a disposable gown for both reconstitution and administration (HSE [104]). It has been suggested that a long‐sleeved, non‐absorbent gown made of a low‐linting, low‐permeability material such as Tyvek is used (Ferguson and Wright [74], Weinstein and Hagle [265]). Gowns coated with polyethylene or vinyl offer the best protection (Polovich [192]). Gowns should have a solid front and a back closure as well as long sleeves and tight cuffs (Polovich et al. [194], Weinstein and Hagle [265]). Gowns are designed for single use only and should not be hung up or reapplied once removed (Polovich [192]). This will prevent drug contamination of the environment as well as the worker's clothing. Armlets and plastic aprons can be used as a substitute for long‐sleeved gowns during administration (HSE [104]).

Goggles are used to protect the eyes from splashes and particles; they should fully cover the eyes of the handler. Goggles should meet BS EN 166 requirements and be worn whenever reconstituting chemotherapy where there is a possibility of splashing or dealing with a spill (Ferguson and Wright [74], LCA [138], Polovich [192]).

These should be worn whenever there is a possibility of inhalation or if the drug is being prepared in an uncontrolled environment. Masks should conform to BS EN standard. The key factor regarding respiratory protective equipment is that it fits well and is sealed properly to the wearer's face. A range of different sizes of disposable masks should be made available to healthcare workers (Ferguson and Wright [74]). A suitable dust mask or particulate respirator with a FFP2 or FFP3 filter should be used (LCA [138]).