How do you choose the right work gloves?
You should ask yourself these questions when choosing the right glove:
- What will I be working with?
- Are chemicals or microorganisms involved in the work?
- Do I have allergies?
- How much dexterity/comfort do I want?
- Do I need to be able to operate a touchscreen?
- Does the glove need to withstand high heat and/or cold exposure?
- Is there a risk that I may cut my hand or fingers?
General facts about gloves
pH value – For all gloves, it should be in the range 3.5-9.5.
Chromium content – chromium VI (applies to leather):
The limit value for chromium is 3 mg/kg. If the glove contains multiple types of leather, these are tested separately.
The labeling on gloves includes:
- Possible identification of the manufacturer or their representative
- Glove name or item number
- Size
- Any pictograms and results of the underlying tests as well as relevant supplementary material
- Visible marking during the glove's lifetime, if the material allows this, otherwise correct marking on the glove's packaging
Gloves must be marked with the CE marking.
Categories
Gloves are divided into the following 3 categories:
Category I - Low risk
Should only be used for tasks with low safety risk. Gloves in Category I do not require special approvals but carry the CE mark.
Category II - Medium risk
Suitable for medium-risk tasks. The gloves must be tested and approved by an independent testing institute in accordance with EN 420 plus one or more standards, such as EN 374 and/or EN 388. The gloves must bear a pictogram that illustrates the protective function and the CE mark.
Category III - High risk
Gloves that are suitable for high-risk tasks; this can, for example, be chemical gloves, heat and cold gloves, or gloves that can withstand radiation or microorganisms. In this category, the gloves must be tested by an independent testing institute, as in Category II, and ongoing quality control must also be carried out. In addition to a pictogram and the CE mark, the product must be marked with a 4-digit code that refers to the testing institute.
Glove materials
Synthetic glove materials
Butyl rubber
Butyl rubber has a very high density against gases and vapors. The material provides good protection against many types of aggressive chemicals, such as ketones and strong acids. This material is widely used in the chemical industry.
Dyneema
An incredibly durable material made from polyethylene fibers, which is one of the strongest fiber materials available. Dyneema is up to 15 times stronger than steel, which is why the material is also used in many product types such as rope, cables, fishing nets and ballistic protection equipment. Dyneema gloves are particularly used in industry where high demands are placed on durability, wear and cut resistance.
Dyneema/Glass fiber
A special blended material that delivers high performance against cuts and abrasion. The material is often used in knitted gloves where good dexterity is required while still providing high protection.
Kelvar
Kelvar is an extremely durable material made from cut-resistant aramid fibers. This means that the material and the special weave give the glove very high cut resistance. Kelvar can also be supplied with an aluminum coating so that radiant heat is reflected away from the hand. The material’s unique properties make Kelvar one of the most preferred materials for manufacturing gloves, especially when the glove must handle hot elements and sharp objects. Gloves made from Kelvar material are washable.
Laminate
The barrier glove is made from a 5-layer laminate, only 0.065 mm thick.
Neoprene/Chloroprene
Neoprene/Chloroprene is a synthetic rubber material, also called chloroprene. Neoprene protects against a wide range of chemicals, including alcohols, acids and oil products. Furthermore, the material is resistant to sunlight and ozone. The material remains very elastic even in cold environments.
Nitrile
Nitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) is a synthetic material that is highly resistant to both mechanical and chemical impacts. Gloves are available as half- and fully-dipped, as well as molded gloves. Molded nitrile gloves are used in industry against chemicals, while dipped gloves are for mechanical wear, e.g. in construction and the iron and metal industry where coarse items are handled.
Nomex
Flame-retardant material used for the manufacture of fire-resistant gloves. Nylon (Polyamide): Nylon is used, among other things, for knitted gloves where an extra good fit is required. Nylon can be knitted very finely to achieve optimal dexterity. Polyethylene (PE): PE is a thin plastic film material used, for example, for disposable gloves with welded seams. Gloves made from this material are suitable for short-term tasks, such as protection against dirt. PE is not suitable for chemicals.
Polyester
Polyester is used, among other things, for knitted gloves. PU, polyurethane: PU is a synthetic material that is light, soft and very elastic. At the same time it has good abrasion resistance. PU gloves provide good protection against vegetable and animal fats. It is not recommended to use a PU glove when working with water or water-based solutions.
PVA, Polyvinyl alcohol
PVA is a very durable material that provides a good grip. PVA offers good protection for tasks involving organic solvents but is not suitable for work with water or alcohol.
Vinyl - PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)
PVC is a strong and flexible material that has been used for many years. The glove ensures a good grip and retains flexibility – even in cold environments. The material protects against some acids and bases and is used in many industries.
Glove materials - Natural:
Natural materials include the various types of leather or natural latex and cotton materials that are suitable for glove production. This can be anything from cow, calf or goatskin.
Natural materials
Cowhide
Cowhide is the thickest leather that can be used for work gloves. The material is very durable and tear-resistant, while providing reasonably good protection against moisture. Gloves made from this material are suitable for all-round work where a high-quality glove is desired.
Split cowhide
On the inner side of the cowhide is the so-called split leather. Split cowhide is not as strong as full-grain cowhide but provides better protection against heat. Therefore, this material is often used for welding and heat-resistant gloves. The surface is rough and therefore provides a good grip. Split cowhide is available in many different qualities and price ranges. Pigskin: This material is more breathable than cowhide but offers less protection against moisture. Pigskin gloves become more flexible the longer they are used.
Pig split
Pig split is available in many different qualities and is generally slightly less durable than pigskin. Pig split is used for cheaper types of work gloves.
Goatskin
Goatskin is a very strong, flexible and comfortable type of leather that is thinner than cowhide. This material is particularly suitable for tasks that require fine dexterity, such as assembly and precision welding. The material provides good protection against moisture because the leather contains natural fats.
Cotton
Cotton is used, among other things, for knitted and woven gloves, for example liners, knitted gloves and drill gloves. Natural rubber (Latex) Latex is one of the most elastic glove materials available. The material offers good protection against many acids and bases and has relatively good temperature resistance. Latex is used in industry, hospitals and the cleaning sector. Latex may cause allergic reactions in some people.
