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A Quick Guide to the Different Types of Safety Gloves
Industrial work requires the use of protective equipment, especially when handling dangerous materials or working with heavy machinery. One invaluable piece of protective equipment is safety gloves. However, not all gloves are created equal—each type serves a specific purpose. In this quick guide, we’ll take a look at the different types of safety gloves, their uses, and why they’re essential for safe and successful operations in your machine shop.
Disposable Gloves
Disposable gloves usually consist of materials like latex, nitrile, or vinyl. They’re designed for workers to use them once, then throw them away. Their thin design preserves dexterity while offering protection against minor spills, splashes, sprays, or other contaminants. However, they’re not durable enough to handle more hazardous situations, such as handling sharp materials or strong chemicals.
Cut-Resistant Gloves
As the name implies, cut-resistant gloves are designed to protect the hands from cuts and punctures. They’re ideal for tasks that involve handling sharp objects, such as glass, metal, or blades. They’re also crucial when working with abrasives like grinders or sanders. Cut-resistant gloves use materials like stainless steel mesh or high-performance aramid fibers; some gloves also incorporate hard linings using plastics or similar materials to enhance protection.
Chemical-Resistant Gloves
Chemical-resistant gloves are useful for industries that involve handling hazardous chemicals and materials. These gloves can resist the corrosive properties of liquid chemicals like acids or alkalis. The most common materials used in chemical-resistant gloves are neoprene, nitrile, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), with different materials offering better protection against different chemicals. For example, neoprene is a synthetic rubber that offers great protection when working with hydraulic fluids and oils. Choosing the right chemical-resistant gloves for the job is a key part of maintaining a safe and healthy workshop.
Electrical Gloves
Electrical gloves, such as industrial rubber gloves, protect workers against electrical shock. They’re ideal for electricians and any workers who operate, repair, or otherwise handle electrical equipment. Electrical gloves are often bulkier and less dexterous than other types of safety gloves, but they feature careful designs that provide adequate insulation and prevent wearers from coming into contact with electrical currents.
TMT Toolbox offers a wide variety of industrial safety gloves to keep workers safe in all kinds of workshop environments. Stock up on gloves and other safety equipment when you visit us online today.