Personal protective equipment (PPE) gloves are a type of protective gear worn on the hands to prevent the transmission of disease or injury. They are commonly used in healthcare settings and various industries such as food handling, construction and manufacturing. These gloves can be made of multiple materials, including latex, nitrile and vinyl and are designed to protect against various hazards, including chemical exposure, cuts and infectious diseases.
PPE gloves have become increasingly important in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Wearing gloves can help prevent the transmission of the virus by reducing the chances of touching the face and nose, which are the main routes for the virus to enter the body. The gloves can also provide a barrier to prevent the hands from coming into contact with infectious bodily fluids such as blood and saliva.
Several types of these gloves are available, each designed for specific purposes and hazards. Here are some common types of PPE gloves.
1. Latex Gloves
These gloves are made of natural rubber and are commonly used in healthcare settings due to their high sensitivity and flexibility. They provide good protection against bacteria and viruses but may cause allergic reactions in some people. You must notify your company if you have an allergy so that they can make alternate arrangements.
2. Nitrile Gloves
These hand protection gloves are made of synthetic rubber and are a popular alternative to latex gloves. They resist chemicals and punctures and provide reasonable protection against infectious diseases. Nitrile gloves are also less likely to cause allergic reactions.
3. Vinyl Gloves
These gloves are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and are a cheaper alternative to latex and nitrile gloves. However, they are less durable and provide less protection against chemicals and infectious diseases. Nevertheless, they are often used in food handling and other industries requiring frequent glove changes.
4. Disposable Gloves
These gloves are designed for single use and are commonly used in healthcare settings to prevent the transmission of infections. They are made of various materials, including latex, nitrile and vinyl. Healthcare and laboratory workers usually dispose of these gloves in incinerators or dedicated bins.
5. Reusable Gloves
These gloves are made of materials such as leather and canvas and are designed to be used multiple times. They are commonly used in industries such as construction and manufacturing, where there is a risk of cuts and abrasions.
Things to Consider While Choosing Protective Gloves
Choosing the right type of protective gloves for the specific task and hazard is crucial. Wearing gloves that are not suitable for the job can increase the risk of injury or disease transmission. For example, too thick or inflexible gloves may impair hand movement and dexterity, leading to accidents or mistakes.
When using these gloves, following proper hand hygiene and glove usage guidelines is essential. This includes washing hands before and after wearing gloves and avoiding touching the face or nose while wearing gloves. It is also necessary to properly dispose of used gloves to prevent contamination.
Conclusion
PPE gloves are essential personal protective equipment that can help prevent disease transmission and injury in various settings. It is crucial to choose the right type of gloves for the specific task and hazard and follow proper hand hygiene and glove usage guidelines to ensure maximum protection. Contact the best PPE suppliers in Australia today for your protective glove requirements.
