When it comes to hand protection, choosing the right glove can mean the difference between comfort and serious injury. In New Zealand, the landscape of protective gloves is governed by strict standards and regulations, ensuring that workers across various industries remain safe while performing their tasks.
But where do you start? how do you choose the right glove? In this article we’ll go through ten different types of hand protection and when to use each one.
Assessing Your Workplace Hazards
Before you even think about the materials of the glove, you need to understand the risks you face. Are you dealing with:
- Sharp objects? (Glass, sheet metal, blades)
- Chemicals or liquids? (Solvents, oils, cleaning agents)
- Extreme temperatures? (Welding, refrigeration)
- Rough materials? (Concrete, wood, bricks)
- The need for hygiene and sensitivity? (Food handling, medical use)
Once you’ve identified your primary hazards, you can match them to a specific glove category.
Matching the Hazard to the Glove Type
At Riff Safety, we’ve organized our gloves into categories to make your choice easier. Here’s a breakdown of our main types of hand and arm protection and when to use them.
1. Cut-Resistant Gloves
If you work with sharp materials like glass, metal, or blades, these are your first line of defense. Made from advanced materials like high-performance polyethylene (HPPE) or engineered yarns, these gloves are rated for different levels of cut protection, which we will go through in the next article so stay tuned!
- Cut-resistant gloves are ideal for: Glaziers, Metal Fabrication, Automotive, Assembly.
- Our recommendation: Look for gloves with a high EN388 cut rating (Level C through F) for maximum protection.
Explore our range of cut-resistant gloves here.
2. General Handling & Multipurpose Gloves
For tasks that don’t involve extreme hazards but still require protection from scrapes, dirt, and minor cuts, general handling gloves are perfect. They offer excellent grip and dexterity, making them comfortable for all-day wear.
- General handling gloves are ideal for: Warehousing, Construction, Landscaping, Logistics, DIY Projects.
- Our recommendation: Nitrile or polyurethane (PU) coated gloves provide a great balance of grip, comfort, and durability.
We supply a wide range of multipurpose gloves. Check it out here
3. Chemical Resistant Gloves
When handling chemicals, solvents, or oils, a standard glove won’t do. Chemical-resistant gloves are made from materials like nitrile, PVC, or neoprene that act as a barrier to prevent harmful substances from touching your skin.
- These kind of chemical-resistant gloves are ideal for: Laboratories, Cleaning, Manufacturing, Automotive Maintenance.
- Important tip! Always check the glove’s chemical resistance chart against the specific chemicals you are using.
If you’re unsure, never assume!. We have a great supply of chemical gloves here
4. Disposable Gloves
Perfect for tasks requiring high levels of hygiene and prevention of cross-contamination. They are designed for single use and provide a barrier against germs, fluids, and dirt.
- Ideal for: Food Handling, Medical and First Aid, Cleaning, Painting.
- Our recommendation: Nitrile disposable gloves are a great latex-free option, offering more puncture resistance than vinyl.
5. Leather Gloves
A traditional and trusted choice, leather gloves are known for their durability and resistance to abrasion and heat. They are a rugged option for tough jobs.
- Ideal for: Welding, Construction, Rigging, Farming.
- Our recommendation: Look for features like reinforced palms for heavy-duty work.
Shop our stock of leather gloves here
6. Thermal and Heat Resistant Gloves
For jobs involving contact with hot surfaces, open flames, or sparks, specialized heat-resistant gloves are essential to prevent serious burns. For cold environments, thermal-lined gloves keep your hands warm and functional.
- Ideal for: Welding, Foundry Work, Commercial Kitchens (Heat); Freezer Work, Outdoor Winter Work (Cold).
Shop Thermal & Heat Resistant Gloves
In summary
Choosing the right hand protection is a critical safety decision. By understanding your risks and matching them to the right type of glove, you can work confidently and safely. An ill-fitting glove can be a safety hazard. If it’s too tight, it will restrict movement and causes hand fatigue. If it’s too loose, it could snag on machinery and reduce dexterity.
Make sure your gloves are snug but comfortable, allowing you to perform your job without any issues.
If you’re not sure what type of glove you need, don’t worry! we’re here to help. Give us a call on 0800 474 338 or email hello@rifft.co.nz
Browse our full collection of Hand and Arm Protection today
