Hand Protection
Hand Protection
Protective gloves and sleeves available in an array of styles and materials for applications such as lab, electrical, medical, and cleanroom work. Protects against hazardous substances, extreme temperatures, impact, sharp objects, and more.
Selection of the appropriate hand protection is based on the hazards workers encounter, such as skin absorption of harmful substances, severe cuts, lacerations, abrasions, punctures, burns, and harmful temperature extremes.
Disposable Gloves
Disposable gloves are typically made from materials such as latex, nitrile, neoprene, butyl, vinyl or specialty formulations that offer some form of chemical resistance. Their thinner construction, like what is found in exam gloves or finger cots, enhances touch sensitivity for tasks involving fine motor skills. They are mostly ambidextrous, but in some applications (i.e., cleanroom gloves) they are pair packed. They are available sterile or non-sterile.
Reusable Gloves
Like disposable gloves, reusable gloves come in a variety of materials and styles designed to handle more demanding hazards. Unlike disposables, reusables can be constructed of one or more materials or fabrics that offer enhanced hand protection.
- Work gloves and mechanics’ gloves may have a soft inner lining and an outer layer of heavier cloth, leather, or synthetic material with reinforced palms or knuckles
- Chemical-resistant gloves may be “dipped” or coated with a layer of nitrile, neoprene, or other materials
- Cut-resistant gloves may be woven of specialty fibers that afford cut or puncture resistance; some styles can be worn underneath other gloves to offer dual protection
- Firefighting, rescue, and tactical gloves may include layers to protect wearers from punctures or extreme temperatures
Other Hand Protection Options
Other reusable glove designs are available for handling more specialized hazards:
- Cold-resistant gloves
- Heat-resistant gloves
- Welding and electrical safety gloves
- Dry box gloves