Gloves

There are many different types of gloves out there for many different uses. When choosing a glove, you must consider such factors as the hazards and demands the wearer will be facing, the purpose of the glove, what it must protect against and the skin sensitivities of the user and who them come in contact with.

There are generally three types of materials used in gloves: natural rubber latex, synthetic vinyl and nitrile. Though latex gloves have many good qualities, many people are allergic to it and therefore must choose an alternative. Medical grade or “exam” gloves have FDA oversight and approval. They must meet certain standards and are mandatory for anyone coming in contact with blood borne pathogens. Industrial grade gloves are disposable gloves used for industrial or non-medical purposes.

Powdered gloves are usually less expensive but are less popular as the powder can be inhaled into the lungs along with any bacteria that may adhere to it. Powder-free gloves have also become more popular as they contain less latex proteins thus reducing allergic reactions.

More specific details are available under each specific glove type.