Guide to Different Types of Gloves

In many cases, hand protection means safety gloves. These custom PU leather gloves are the first line of defense between your hands and dangerous items or materials you might encounter during the workday.

However, not all protective gloves are created equal, and knowing how to choose the right gloves for the right job is the first — and potentially most important — step you can take to avoid hand injuries.

Common Gloves for Safety and Hygiene Uses

1. Latex Gloves

The primary function of latex gloves is to protect hands against bloodborne pathogens, biohazards, and chemicals. They are very tactile, so some professionals in high-precision careers, such as surgeons, swear by latex. These gloves are produced from rubber tree sap and have been a staple in the medical field and other industries for decades.

2. Nitrile Gloves

Unlike latex, which is made from natural rubber, nitrile (nitrile butadiene rubber), is produced from synthetic rubber. It is stronger and more puncture-resistant than latex, and often, it is more economical. Additionally, using nitrile reduces the risk of an allergic reaction.

3. Leather Gloves

A quality pair of leather gloves can last many years with proper care. Leather, depending on its thickness, can be highly resistant to cuts, abrasions, and punctures. It is comfortable, conforms to the shape of the hand, and allows for freedom of movement. It also offers protection from the elements and even a slight degree of chemical resistance.

However, without proper attention, leather can become dry and cracked, at which time its protective properties will be diminished. Leather gloves are also susceptible to heat damage, so if they are intended to prevent burns, it is best to include a liner, which is a technique often used by welders.

Considerations for Choosing the Best Types of Gloves

As you can see, the gloves available to protect employees range from thin plastic that prevents contact with food all the way to specialized gloves to resist highly dangerous chemicals. Depending on your industry and your staff’s daily tasks, you likely already know what types of gloves will work best. However, you may want to consider a few more points before deciding which gloves are the correct ones for your needs.

Industry requirements: If you are operating in the medical or dental fields, you will be required by law to use gloves that meet certain requirements.

Length: From the fingertip to the glove opening, gloves can end at the wrist or extend beyond the elbow. Longer gloves are essential in situations where workers must submerge their hands and arms or when they cannot risk exposing the skin of the arm.

Elongation: Elongation refers to how far a glove can stretch before it tears.

Thickness: Clearly, the thicker the glove, the more protection it offers, so more hazardous practices require thicker gloves. That said, you should be aware that thickness can sometimes impede flexibility and movement. If dexterity is a must for your applications, you may want to avoid thicker gloves.

Fit: A proper fit is essential to getting maximum protection from your gloves. If gloves are too small or large, they can make working uncomfortable and difficult.

Donghao offers a wide range of leather gloves to meet your needs. We encourage you to contact us if you are unsure of the best gloves for your situation, as we will be happy to help you select the perfect option.