<p> MEDICAL GLOVESplay a dual role as a barrier for personal protection and in the prevention of transmission of infection. During the 1980s the emergence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and recognition of the increased risks to healthcare workers from blood-borne viruses, significantly raised the profile of gloves. They are probably the most effective means of barrier protection in the healthcare environment. The subsequent development of 'universal precautions' designed to protect healthcare workers from the risks arising from contact with blood and body fluids, included recommendations that healthcare workers anticipating such exposure should wear natural rubber latex (NRL) gloves.</p>