When performing tasks involving hazardous chemicals and other materials, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial. One such type of PPE is gloves. Gloves protect the hands and wrists from contact with substances that may cause harm, such as burns, absorption, lacerations, and other injuries. Moreover, this hand PPE can help to protect against infections, viruses, contaminations, and diseases.
This article will dig deeper into the types of gloves and the importance of wearing them.
Without further ado, let’s get started:
1. Latex Gloves
As the name suggests, latex gloves are made of natural rubber and provide a flexible, form-fitting layer of protection. These gloves give sufficient safety, especially for healthcare professionals and patients. They protect medical staff from blood-borne infections such as Cysticercosis (a parasitic tissue illness), AIDS/HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses, HSV, or herpes simplex virus.
Here are some advantages of latex gloves:
- Highly durable and tear-resistant
- Provide excellent sensitivity and comfort
- Offer superior protection against water and harsh chemicals
Some research has suggested that wearing latex gloves while doing surgical tests in sterile environments can decrease the risk of transmission. Surgeons, for instance, may prefer this type of glove over cloth gloves because of its outstanding eco-resistance properties. This makes it the perfect option for long-hour operating periods in a disinfected area where risks must be significantly reduced at all costs.
As you can see, latex gloves are essential for medical professionals, but use them cautiously as some may have an allergic reaction to the latex in this type of glove.
2. Nitrile Gloves
Nitrile gloves are made from synthetic rubber that is stronger and more durable than latex gloves. They form a tight-fitting barrier to protect the hands from contact with skin irritants, chemicals, and hazardous liquids such as liquid nitrogen or alcohol. Nitrile gloves are gaining popularity due to their excellent breathability and resistance against punctures, chemicals, and contamination. In fact, experts predict the global nitrile gloves market to hit USD$10.19 billion by 2030 at a yearly growth rate of 5.7% during the forecasted period (2023-2030). This figure indicates the increasing demand for this PPE in various industries.
Compared to latex gloves, nitrile gloves provide high protection and grip. They can also be used for extended periods without any discomfort. You can reap many benefits from wearing nitrile gloves, such as the following:
- They are skin-friendly, easy to put on and take off
- Highly resistant to puncturing and tearing
- Provide better friction than latex gloves for the user’s comfort
- Non-allergic, thus ideal for people with latex allergies.
- Improved tactile sensitivity
Nitrile gloves are ideal for high-risk environments, such as hospitals and laboratories, where protection from infectious diseases is essential. Tattoo artists, mechanics, and other professionals can also wear these gloves as they regularly handle hazardous materials. In other words, nitrile gloves are technologically proficient and safe to use.
3. Vinyl Gloves
If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to latex and nitrile gloves, vinyl gloves are the way to go. This type of glove is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and provides a thin, low-cost barrier against contamination. Vinyl gloves are ideal in food service settings and low-risk environments requiring minimal protection. They are also efficient against acids, oily substances, emulsions, and other non-solvent-based chemicals.
Vinyl gloves offer benefits such as:
- Latex free
- Bacteria and odor resistant
- Exceptionally resilient
- Cost-effective
Besides ensuring safety, vinyl gloves also contain anti-static properties, which prove beneficial when working with wires and cords. By wearing these gloves, you can prevent static electricity from being generated – a common occurrence often when removing sheaths using tools. For this reason, they prove an invaluable asset in preventing chafing on your skin or other surfaces.
4. Neoprene Gloves
Are you looking for advanced protection against water, chemicals, and abrasions? If so, neoprene gloves are the right choice. Neoprene is a synthetic, man-made rubber that is resistant to chemicals, extreme temperatures, and ultraviolet light.
Depending on its purpose, this glove has either a smooth or textured finish. The soft neoprene gloves are ideal for use in lab settings, while the textured version is best to use in applications like fishing, gardening, and automotive repair.
Here’s a quick overview of the benefits that neoprene gloves offer:2
- Sturdy and waterproof
- Excellent insulation properties against cold temperatures
- Keep hands protected in wet conditions
- Offer superior grip and dexterity
- Impressive resistance to punctures and tears
Neoprene gloves are suitable for various applications such as manufacturing, outdoor activities, and janitorial duties. With their high quality, they can help keep your hands safe and protected while you’re on the job.
Safeguard Your Hands with the Right Type of Glove
To conclude, all gloves have distinct features and capabilities that make them suitable for different purposes. Select the right type of glove for your needs, depending on the environment or application. Doing so will help you protect your hands and keep them safe from potential hazards.
So, now that you’ve learned all about gloves, it’s time to find and purchase from trusted suppliers. Companies like Gloves.com have a selection of high-quality, reliable gloves that can fit any budget. Their affordable prices and fast delivery make them the perfect choice for glove-related needs. Let Gloves.com help you safeguard your hands with the right type of glove! It will be worth it in the long run!
