MATERIALS & OTHER FACTORS TO CONSIDER
How to choose the right safety gloves for hand protection
Keeping your hands free from potential injury should be made a main priority which is why it is so important to ensure you are choosing the right glove for the intended job. The wrong glove leads to a higher risk of injury, and less productivity. Once you have established the amount of protection required, what you are needed to be protected against and chosen a glove that conforms to all the relevant European Standards, there are a number of extra factors to consider. So, what are the things you need to consider when choosing a safety glove for yourself or your employees? Our glove experts at Hannaford PPE have put together a guide below, but if you are still not sure please do not hesitate to contact us for any advice and help with orders.
FACTORS IN SELECTING HAND PROTECTION:
MATERIAL OF GLOVES
How to choose the right disposable gloves material
Nitrile vs Latex vs Vinyl Gloves:
Nitrile gloves - The preferred option for disposable gloves and what Hannaford PPE specialises in. Nitrile gloves are made from synthetic rubber reducing the risk of of allergies associated with latex. Nitrile gloves are often used by those who are looking for people who need extreme protection against biological substances, chemicals and infections. These gloves have a long shelf life and are extremely puncture-resistant. The nitrile disposable gloves you require are available from Hannaford PPE and ready to deliver worldwide. Please get in touch with a member of our team today.
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Latex gloves - Latex is a versatile material which offers protection against bacteria and viruses. Latex gloves provide a snug fit which maximise the natural feeling of your hands. They are puncture-resistant and offer reliable flexibility and strength. An important pro to latex gloves is that natural rubber is biodegradable meaning the environmental impact is limited. If you are looking for latex gloves for you or your team, please get in touch with Hannaford PPE today.
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Vinyl gloves - Vinyl material is perfect for those looking to change their gloves frequently and use for a short amount of time, such as food preparation. Although Vinyl gloves are latex-free so do not carry the risk of allergic reactions, they offer limited protection against chemically exposed tasks and are not ideal for high risk situations.
FIT OF GLOVES
Are you wearing the right sized disposable gloves?
Once you have determined the material of glove you need, the correct sizing is crucial in keeping you properly protected. The size will impact comfort and dexterity, meaning you may not be able to complete a task as well or at all. The wrong size of gloves, too big or too small, will be very distracting to the wearer so it is important to be comfortable.
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If you have disposable gloves which are too big they will be more likely to fall off or liquids can make their way into the gloves. You will find you have less grip and tasks will be harder to complete.
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Gloves which are too small risk ripping or puncturing increasing the risk of unwanted substances coming into contact with your hands. Tight gloves will also restrict dexterity, causing hand fatigue and discomfort.
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How to make sure you are wearing the right sized gloves - Firstly, you'll want to measure your hands using your dominant hand. Wrap a tape measure around the widest part of your hand. Record the size of your hand across the widest part of your palm. Once you've measured it around, measure lengthwise by recording the length of your longest finger from the tip to the base of your hand. Once you have these two figures, choose the larger figure and round it up. For example, if the measurement around your hand was 5.5 inches and the measurement of your finger was 6.7 inches you would round it up to 7 - this is your glove size. You will then need to convert as needed or alternatively ask a member of our team to tell you what this would be in sizes XS, S, M, L, XL. We have a huge selection of disposable glove sizes in stock and ready to deliver worldwide.
POWDERED VS NON-POWDERED
What is the difference?
Disposable gloves come in two different main types - powdered and powder free.
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Powdered gloves - These gloves have an added side of powder inside, making it easier to get them on and off which is especially good in situations where you need to replace your gloves quickly and frequently. Additionally, the powder also helps keep your hands dry which reduces sweat, especially on a hot day. The powder is also good in preventing potential rips and tears.
However, if powdered gloves are worn for a long period of time they can cause allergies/skin reactions as the powder can cling to the skin. They are also not recommended to be used in food industries as the powder can stick to your hands and therefore cause contamination after removal.
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Non-powdered/powder-free gloves - In 2016 the FDA banned powdered gloves in medical and dental industries since the powder can aerosolize latex allergens to patients and cause sneezing, itchy eyes, or wheezing. Powder-free gloves are extremely strong and durable for tough tasks. They also have a high level of grip, making it easier for you to complete more difficult work. Powder-free gloves undergo chlorination which means powder is not needed for easy donning and removal. They are more versatile than powdered gloves due to their oil, chemical and water resistance.