Views: 85 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-11-20 Origin: Site
Hands are among the most vulnerable parts of the human body in the workplace. From handling sharp tools to working with hazardous chemicals, workers face a variety of risks every day. That's why safety gloves are considered one of the most important types of personal protective equipment (PPE). But not all gloves are made the same—different industries and job tasks require specialized protection.
In this guide, we'll break down the main types of safety gloves, their functions, and where they are most commonly used.
Best for: Construction, sheet metal work, glass handling, automotive.
Cut-resistant gloves are designed to prevent injuries from sharp objects and tools. They are typically made from advanced materials like HPPE (high-performance polyethylene), Kevlar, or steel fibers woven into the fabric. These gloves are rated on a scale (A1–A9 in ANSI/ISEA standards) depending on how much cut force they can withstand.
Key Benefit: Protects hands from lacerations and punctures without sacrificing flexibility.
Best for: Laboratories, cleaning, chemical processing, food handling.
When workers handle corrosive substances, oils, or solvents, chemical-resistant gloves are essential. Materials like nitrile, neoprene, PVC, and latex provide barriers against different types of chemicals. The right glove choice depends on the specific chemical exposure—nitrile is widely preferred for its balance of chemical resistance and durability.
Key Benefit: Prevents burns, irritation, and skin absorption of harmful substances.
Best for: Welding, foundries, metal fabrication, glass manufacturing.
High temperatures, sparks, and molten metal require specialized gloves made from leather, aluminized fabrics, or Kevlar stitching. Welding gloves, in particular, are designed with longer cuffs to protect both the hands and lower arms from sparks and splatter.
Key Benefit: Shields workers from burns while maintaining grip and dexterity around hot materials.
Best for: Electricians, utility workers, maintenance crews.
Electrical gloves are made from specially tested insulating rubber that prevents electric shock. They are classified by voltage protection levels and often paired with leather protectors to reduce wear. Regular inspection and testing are required to ensure ongoing safety.
Key Benefit: Provides life-saving protection when working around live electrical circuits.
Best for: Oil & gas, mining, heavy construction, mechanical work.
Impact-resistant gloves are reinforced with thermoplastic rubber (TPR) or gel padding across the knuckles and fingers. They are designed to absorb and distribute force from heavy tools, falling objects, or crushing hazards.
Key Benefit: Reduces risk of bruises, fractures, and pinching injuries.
Best for: Food service, medical, laboratory, light industrial use.
Disposable gloves provide a sanitary barrier and are ideal for tasks that require frequent glove changes. Nitrile is the most popular option due to its resistance to punctures and chemicals, while latex offers flexibility and vinyl is a cost-effective choice.
Key Benefit: Protects against contamination while maintaining hygiene.
Best for: Outdoor winter work, cold storage, logistics.
Cold environments pose serious risks such as frostbite and reduced dexterity. Thermal gloves are insulated with materials like Thinsulate, fleece, or wool, providing warmth while still allowing workers to grip tools and equipment effectively.
Key Benefit: Maintains hand safety and comfort in freezing conditions.
| Hazard / Workplace Task | Recommended Glove Type | Key Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp tools, sheet metal, glass | Cut-Resistant Gloves | Prevents cuts, lacerations, and punctures |
| Chemicals, oils, solvents | Chemical-Resistant Gloves | Shields against burns and skin absorption |
| Welding, foundries, hot surfaces | Heat-Resistant / Welding Gloves | Protects from sparks, flames, and high heat |
| Electrical work | Electrical-Insulating Gloves | Prevents electric shocks |
| Heavy tools, impact hazards | Impact-Resistant Gloves | Absorbs and reduces force from impacts |
| Food handling, medical tasks | Disposable Gloves (Nitrile, Latex, Vinyl) | Provides hygiene and contamination control |
| Cold storage, outdoor winter work | Cold-Weather / Thermal Gloves | Keeps hands warm and prevents frostbite |
Safety gloves are not one-size-fits-all. Each type is designed with a specific hazard in mind, from sharp edges to chemical spills to electrical shocks. Employers and workers should always evaluate job risks and select gloves that offer the right level of protection without compromising comfort or performance.
Remember: The right pair of gloves can prevent life-changing injuries and keep workers safe across industries.
At LITA Safety, we specialize in manufacturing industrial safety gloves tailored to different industries, including cut-resistant, chemical-resistant, welding, and general-purpose gloves. With our high-quality products, we help businesses worldwide ensure worker safety and productivity.
Contact us at info@litasafety.com to explore the best glove solutions for your workplace.
