Work gloves are a necessary part of many jobs - often their use can prevent serious injuries. But do you know how to choose the correct type for the work you're doing? All gloves are not the same and understanding the glove type, material and use will help you make the right decision. Let's begin!
Disposable/Single Use Gloves
This type of glove may be made of vinyl, PVC, latex or nitrile. They're economical and often disposable. You'll use these gloves for light-duty tasks in food handling, medical use, lab use, small parts handling and manufacturing.
Made of cotton or polyester, these gloves offer a comfortable fit and good flexibility. They are thin enough to be used as a liner inside other gloves for extra protection and grip. Many have PVC dots for extra grip as well. They're typically used for light-duty tasks.
Leather Gloves
Gloves made from cowhide, pigskin or goatskin are commonly used for abrasion resistance. Because leather provides strength, dexterity and durability while providing comfort and protection, this type of glove is an excellent choice for medium-duty tasks. Look for designs with shirred or elasticized cuffs - these will help keep dirt and debris out of the gloves.
Canvas & Fabric Gloves
Normally made from cotton or synthetic fabrics, these are general purpose gloves that are suitable for light-to-medium-duty tasks. They provide durability, comfort and dexterity. Like the knit gloves, canvas & fabric gloves can be found with PVC dots for greater grip. Sturdy synthetic fabrics increase the durability and offer resistance to abrasions, cuts and punctures. These gloves can usually be laundered.
Coated/Dipped Gloves
Usually knit gloves with foam nitrile, polyurethane or PVC coatings and used for chemical processing/handling, cleaning, oil refining and food processing, they are suitable for medium-to-heavy-duty tasks. They offer protection against solvents, chemicals, abrasions, cuts and punctures. The degree of protection varies with the type of coating.
Specialty Gloves
Your heavy-duty helper, these gloves are for rough, oily, abrasive, hot or cold environments. They're cut-resistant and a great choice for box handling. You'll find them made from lined & unlined neoprene, nitrile, nylon and possibly Kevlar. They provide dexterity, grip and impact cushioning while being impervious to liquids.
I hope you found this guide helpful. Feel free to leave a comment or ask a question - I'm happy to provide any information you may need.
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