How to Choose the Right Safety Gloves for Your Application
Selecting the correct safety gloves is critical for worker protection and productivity. This guide helps you match glove types to specific hazards and tasks.
Key Factors to Consider
- Hazard Type: Chemical, cut, abrasion, heat, or puncture resistance needed?
- Dexterity Requirements: Fine motor tasks need thinner, more flexible gloves
- Duration of Use: Single-use disposable vs. reusable industrial gloves
- Compliance: EN 388, EN 374, ANSI/ISEA standards for your industry
- Comfort & Fit: Proper sizing reduces hand fatigue and increases safety
Glove Types by Application
Disposable Nitrile Gloves
Best For: Food handling, healthcare, light chemical work, hygiene tasks
Protection Level: Chemical splash, puncture resistance, powder-free options
Certification: EN 374 (chemical), FDA approved for food contact
Browse Nitrile GlovesCut-Resistant Work Gloves
Best For: Glass handling, sheet metal, construction, packaging
Protection Level: EN 388 cut levels A-F (Level 5 is common for industrial use)
Materials: HPPE, Kevlar®, or steel wire blends with PU or nitrile coating
Browse Cut-Resistant GlovesChemical-Resistant Gloves
Best For: Lab work, industrial cleaning, pesticide handling, automotive fluids
Protection Level: EN 374 Type A/B/C (permeation resistance against specific chemicals)
Materials: Butyl, neoprene, PVC, or heavy-duty nitrile (check chemical compatibility chart)
Browse Chemical GlovesHeat & Welding Gloves
Best For: Welding, foundry work, hot material handling
Protection Level: EN 407 heat resistance (up to 350°C contact heat)
Materials: Leather (cowhide, goatskin) with Kevlar® stitching or aluminized fabric
Browse Heat-Resistant GlovesUnderstanding Glove Standards
| Standard | Protection Type | Key Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| EN 388 | Mechanical risks | Abrasion, cut, tear, puncture ratings (0-5) |
| EN 374 | Chemical & micro-organisms | Type A/B/C permeation resistance |
| EN 407 | Thermal hazards | Contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat |
| ANSI/ISEA 105 | Cut resistance (US) | Levels A1-A9 (A9 = highest cut resistance) |
Sizing & Comfort Tips
- Measure hand circumference at the widest part (excluding thumb) to determine size
- Gloves that are too tight reduce circulation and cause fatigue; too loose compromises grip
- For prolonged use, choose gloves with sweat-wicking liners or perforations
- Test dexterity by picking up small objects (coins, screws) before committing to bulk orders
Need Expert Advice?
Our safety specialists can help you select the right gloves based on your specific hazards, industry regulations, and budget. We offer free samples for evaluation on orders over R2,500.