Choosing Work Gloves: Protection for Every Task

Your hands are essential tools - protect them properly. Different tasks need different gloves. Here's how to choose the right protection.

Understanding Protection Levels

EN 388 - Mechanical Risks

The standard for protective gloves. Rates gloves on:

• Abrasion resistance (1-4)
• Cut resistance (A-F, formerly 1-5)
• Tear resistance (1-4)
• Puncture resistance (1-4)
• Impact protection (P = pass)

Higher numbers/letters = better protection.

EN 407 - Heat Risks

For heat and flame protection. Rates contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, molten metal splash, and flame resistance.

EN 374 - Chemical Risks

For chemical protection. Different gloves protect against different chemicals - check specifics.

Glove Types

General Purpose

Basic protection for handling materials. Usually a comfortable fit for all-day wear. Leather palm or synthetic materials.

Cut Resistant

Woven with cut-resistant fibres (Kevlar, HPPE, etc.). Essential when handling sharp materials, glass, or sheet metal. Different cut levels for different risks.

Impact Resistant

Padded knuckles and back of hand. For work where hands might hit hard surfaces or get struck. Common in construction and mechanics.

Chemical Resistant

Nitrile, neoprene, or PVC. For handling solvents, oils, chemicals. Check compatibility with specific chemicals you use.

Heat Resistant

For welding, handling hot materials, oven work. Various levels from light heat to extreme temperatures.

Electrical Insulating

Rubber gloves rated for specific voltages. Essential for electrical work. Must be tested and in-date.

Disposable

Nitrile, latex, or vinyl. For clean work, chemical handling, or when frequent changes are needed. Various thicknesses.

Browse our PPE range for glove options.

Fit and Dexterity

Protection is useless if gloves are so clumsy you remove them to work.

Sizing

Measure hand circumference around palm. Sizes typically 6-11 or S-XXL. Try before buying if possible.

Dexterity Trade-off

More protection usually means less dexterity. Choose appropriate level for the task - don't over-specify for simple work.

Touchscreen Compatibility

Some gloves work with touchscreens. Useful if you need to use phone or tablet without removing gloves.

Choosing for Specific Tasks

General Construction

Cut level B-C, good abrasion resistance, comfortable fit. Impact protection if working around hard surfaces.

Handling Sheet Metal/Glass

High cut resistance (D-F). Worth the reduced dexterity for serious protection.

Mechanics/Automotive

Oil-resistant palms, good grip, impact protection optional. Need dexterity for small parts.

Electrical Work

Voltage-rated rubber gloves with leather protectors. Non-negotiable for live work.

Chemical Handling

Check glove material against the specific chemicals. Not all gloves protect against all chemicals.

Welding

Leather gauntlets for MIG/stick. TIG requires thinner gloves for dexterity (still heat resistant).

Care and Replacement

• Inspect before each use
• Replace at first sign of wear or damage
• Clean according to manufacturer instructions
• Store properly - not crumpled in pocket
• Electrical gloves need regular testing and have expiry dates

Common Mistakes

• Wrong glove for the hazard
• Continuing to use damaged gloves
• Removing gloves because they're uncomfortable (buy better-fitting ones)
• Not considering chemical compatibility
• Using fabric gloves near rotating machinery (can catch and pull hand in)

Find protective gloves in our PPE collection.