Written by Jake Oakey on January 31, 2023

How to choose the right safety gloves for work?


Choosing the right safety gloves for work can be a tricky task. With so many options available in the market, it can be confusing to decide which gloves will offer the best protection for your hands.

In this blog, we will explore the different factors to consider when selecting safety gloves for your workplace.

  1. Type of work:

    The type of work you do will greatly determine the type of gloves you need. For example, if you work in construction, you may need gloves that provide extra grip, protection from cuts and abrasions, and are durable. On the other hand, if you work in a laboratory, you may need gloves that provide protection from chemical spills, punctures, and other hazardous substances.
  2. Material:

    The material of the gloves is important in determining their durability, comfort, and protection. Some common materials used in gloves are leather, nitrile, latex, and neoprene. Leather gloves are durable and provide excellent protection from cuts and abrasions. Nitrile gloves are resistant to chemicals and punctures, while latex gloves provide a good grip. Neoprene gloves are ideal for use in wet environments.
  3. Size:

    It is important to choose gloves that fit well and are comfortable to wear. Gloves that are too loose may not provide adequate protection, while gloves that are too tight may restrict movement and cause discomfort. Always try gloves on before purchasing to ensure the right fit.
  4. Environment:

    The environment you work in also determines the type of gloves you need. If you work in a hot environment, gloves made from breathable materials may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you work in a cold environment, gloves that provide thermal insulation may be more appropriate.
  5. Cost:

    The cost of gloves varies depending on the type, material, and brand. It is important to find a balance between cost and protection. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest gloves available, it is important to remember that gloves that provide adequate protection will save you money in the long run by preventing hand injuries.

How do safety gloves provide protection?

Safety gloves provide protection by creating a barrier between the user's hand and potential hazards. The gloves are made of materials such as leather, rubber, nitrile, or kevlar that are designed to resist cuts, abrasions, punctures, and other types of physical harm.

The choice of material depends on the type of hazard the gloves are meant to protect against. For example, gloves made of nitrile or latex are often used in the medical field because they provide protection against biological hazards such as bacteria and viruses.

In addition to the materials used, the design of the gloves also plays a role in their protective abilities. For example, gloves with long cuffs can provide additional wrist protection, while gloves with reinforced fingertips can provide extra protection for the fingertips, which are often the first part of the hand to come into contact with a hazard.

It's important to remember that gloves are not a fool proof solution and are not suitable for every type of hazard. In some cases, additional protective measures such as arm guards or face shields may be required to provide complete protection.

Additionally, gloves must be properly maintained and replaced when they become damaged or worn out in order to continue providing protection.

Portwest A360 gloves



Where can you get safety gloves?

There is many places you can buy safety gloves, we would recommend an industrial supply store as often they are able to offer great prices, wide ranges of options and will be able to provide sound advise on the best glove for you.

Safety gloves can be purchased from a variety of places, including:

  1. Industrial Supply Stores:

    These stores specialize in safety equipment, companies like OAKEYS Safety and are likely to carry a wide variety of gloves to suit different types of work environments.
  2. Online retailers:

    Online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, and other online retailers carry a large selection of gloves and offer the convenience of shopping from home.
  3. Manufacturer’s websites:

    Many glove manufacturers have their own websites where you can purchase their products directly. This can be a great option if you have a specific brand in mind.
  4. Wholesale suppliers:

    Wholesale suppliers offer large quantities of gloves at discounted prices, making them a good option for companies and organizations that require gloves for their employees.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the right safety gloves for work requires careful consideration of several factors. When choosing gloves, consider the type of work you do, the material, size, environment, and cost. By doing so, you will ensure that you have the right gloves to protect your hands and keep you safe on the job.

OAKEYS safety is a combination of a industrial supply store and an online retailer, we have a team of staff able to help you with safety glove questions along with other PPE and workwear products. We supply at the best rates online which is partnered with our easy to use online ordering system. Check out our range of safety gloves below!

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