Gloves can be your best line of defense against a wide range of hazards. This personal protection equipment is a crucial safety gear for many industries, from medical professionals to oil rig workers. But even if your job doesn’t typically involve working with hazardous materials or high-risk activities, you may benefit from wearing gloves as part of your everyday wardrobe.
Based on a report from the National Safety Council, gloves have been proven effective at preventing skin contact with toxic substances such as chemicals, solvents, and caustic agents, which potentially reduces the risk of developing dermatitis or other skin disorders. But only if the hand PPE you’re wearing is explicitly designed for that purpose.
In this article, you’ll learn more about the different types of gloves and how they can help protect your hands from harm.
Types of Gloves
Like most safety equipment, the right pair of gloves for a particular job depends on many factors, including the type of work done and how much protection is needed. To help you out, here are some common types of gloves you can find in the market today.
Disposable gloves
These single-use gloves are the most common type of hand PPE, especially in medical, laboratory, and food processing applications. Nitrile, latex, vinyl, and neoprene are all disposable gloves. Each type has its unique purpose and features, but they all share one thing: they serve as your shield against any potential contaminants and hazardous materials.
Here’s a quick overview:
Nitrile gloves
Nitrile gloves are one of the most sought-after and popular disposable gloves. They are made of synthetic copolymer material formed through a combination of acrylonitrile and butadiene. This material is highly resistant to puncture, tears, and chemicals, making them ideal for medical-grade applications and industrial and janitorial purposes.
If you’re ready to invest in disposable gloves, consider nitrile as your top pick. Gloves.com has a wide selection of nitrile gloves in various sizes, designs, and colors. Their affordable product prices and prompt delivery makes it easy to stock up. You don’t have to worry about running out of gloves in a pinch!
Latex gloves
Behind all the modern synthetic materials, a list will only be complete with the traditional latex gloves. Made of natural rubber, they are known for their superior grip and dexterity compared to other gloves. But since latex allergies are becoming increasingly common, many medical professionals and lab workers are now switching to nitrile or vinyl gloves instead.
Vinyl gloves
If your workplace is looking for an economical, low-allergenic glove option, then vinyl gloves are your best option. They provide an outstanding balance between cost and protection, perfect for food handling and painting tasks. Remember that vinyl gloves are not suited for high-risk activities since they don’t offer the same level of protection as nitrile or latex gloves.
Neoprene gloves
For those working with water-based liquids, neoprene gloves are your go-to. The material provides excellent insulation, keeping your hands dry and comfortable in extreme temperatures and wet conditions. Plus, neoprene gloves also have decent resistance against certain acids and oils and offer excellent flexibility for maximum comfort.
Leather gloves
Are you working with heavy-duty tools and machinery? Then consider leather gloves. This hand protection equipment is the long-standing choice for construction, welding, and other labor-intensive applications. That’s because the material is strong enough to provide maximum protection against cuts and abrasions yet is still flexible for optimum dexterity. It’s also worth noting that flame-resistant leather gloves are one of the best features you can benefit from.
Canvas gloves
You may not expect canvas gloves to be a part of any hand PPE list, but you’ll be surprised by how useful they can be. In particular, these gloves are ideal for landscaping, farming, and other outdoor work that involve contact with plants. Canvas gloves are made of thick cotton material, which provides superior abrasion protection, absorbent, and breathability — three essential features of the said activities.
Benefits of Wearing Gloves
The primary purpose of hand PPE is to protect you from any hazard that may come your way. But there are still other benefits to wearing gloves, such as:
Reduces contact with hazardous materials
Touching contaminants without protection can lead to various illnesses and skin irritations. You won’t have to worry about accidental exposure with the right pair of gloves.
Improves grip
The right gloves can provide more control over the tools you use and objects you handle. This allows for better accuracy and productivity, which makes them an effective tool for industrial and commercial settings.
Increases comfort
Certain gloves are designed to be lightweight yet protect your hands from heat and cold. So even in extreme temperatures, you can still stay comfortable while doing your job.
Convenience
Wearing the right pair of gloves eliminates the need to wash your hands after every task. This makes it an excellent solution for busy professionals or people constantly on the go.
Let Gloves Serve as Your Hands Safety Net
Gloves are more than just a piece of rubber or clothing. They serve as your safety net while performing any work. Whether working in a laboratory, factory, or construction site, taking these extra precautions can distinguish between a minor accident and a severe injury.
Invest in premium quality gloves from a reputable distributor or supplier to ensure you get the most out of your hand protective gear. Always use gloves according to their intended purpose and dispose of them properly. Doing so will help you stay safe and productive without compromising your well-being.
