Types of Industrial Gloves
There are several different types of industrial gloves that are made for various tasks and hazards on the job. The main types are:
Cut resistant gloves - These gloves are designed to protect hands from cuts and scrapes when working with sharp objects like knives, metal shavings, or glass. They are made from materials like Kevlar, titanium, and steel woven into leather or synthetic materials.
Chemical resistant gloves - Chemical gloves are essential for jobs that involve handling hazardous chemicals, solvents, oils, fuels, and other corrosive or toxic substances. The material used depends on the specific chemicals but common options include nitrile, neoprene, PVC, latex, and vinyl.
Heat resistant gloves - For high heat applications like welding, metal working, torch cutting, oven handling, etc. Gloves made from materials like leather, kevlar, aramid fiber, ceramics, and special alloys provide insulation from heat up to several hundred degrees.
Insulated gloves - Keep hands warm in cold environments or when handling very cold materials and equipment. Insulated gloves use thin layers of materials like wool, fleece, cotton, polyester to trap body heat.
Fabric gloves - Light duty gloves made from cotton, nylon, or synthetic fabrics provide basic protection and grip for general labor, assembly line work, packaging, cleanup, and other tasks.
Material Types for Industrial Gloves
The material the glove is made from determines what hazards it can protect against. Here are some common material types used:
Leather - Durable, breathable leather provides basic protection, control, and durability. Commonly used in cut-resistant gloves.
Nitrile - Chemical and puncture resistant. Protects against oils, solvents, chemicals. Most common glove material.
Neoprene -Similar chemical resistance to nitrile but also insulates from heat and electricity. Used for welding, heat applications.
Kevlar - High strength synthetic fiber woven into fabric gloves to provide cut and abrasion resistance.
Nomex/Kevlar - Heat resistant fibers that protect hands from burns up to 500-1,000F. Used for welding gloves.
Ceramic - Provides heat resistance over 1,000F. Protects hands from molten metal splashes.
Latex - Low cost solution, flexible, and protects from water, oil, acids. Not heat or chemical resistant long term.
Focus on Proper Fit and Comfort
When selecting industrial gloves, the right size and comfort level are important for safety and productivity. Gloves that are too tight can slip and impair dexterity while gloves that are too loose fail to provide adequate protection. Look for gloves with:
Anatomically designed fingers and padded palm/backs for full range of motion.
Non-slip linings or textured padding on inside palms and fingers to maintain a secure grip.
Adjustable wrist closures like Velcro or elastic to ensure a snug fit over layers or bulky clothing.
Breathable materials to keep hands dry and comfortable during extended wear periods.
Proper Care Extends Industrial Glove Lifespan
Routine cleaning and inspection of gloves can extend their useful life and maintain hazard protection levels. Here are some best practices:
Inspect for tears, punctures, or thinning material before each use and replace damaged gloves.
Wash reusable gloves by hand with soap or detergent and dry completely to prevent cracking.
Replace disposable gloves frequently as recommended by manufacturer.
Store gloves in a cool, dry area away from direct heat or light to prevent degradation.
Have several pairs on hand to rotate through and allow adequate drying time between uses.
Safety Standards Are Key
OSHA, ASTM, ANSI and other standards organizations provide requirements and testing protocols that help ensure gloves used in industrial settings deliver appropriate protection. Key standards include:
ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 - Classification system for performance levels of cut and puncture resistance.
EN 388 - Protective gloves against mechanical risks like blade cuts and tear resistance.
EN 407 - Heat and fire resistance performance levels for material used.
EN 374 - Chemical permeation testing and classification for contact with specific substances.
Always check that gloves worn meet the necessary standards for the hazards involved. This oversight protects workers and ensures compliance.
Conclusion
Proper selection and use of industrial gloves customized for job tasks and workplace hazards is essential to safeguard hands on the job. Understanding material types, fit requirements, care instructions, and applicable safety standards equips workers and employers to make informed choices that protect this vital asset. Pairing the right gloves with job hazard training results in safer working conditions.
