How to Select the Right Glove...
The intended use of the glove, what it must protect against and the skin sensitivities of the
user are the most important considerations. Disposable gloves are generally made from
natural rubber latex, synthetic nitrile, or vinyl.
Gloves may vary in quality from one manufacturer to another. The quality of the raw
materials, manufacturing formulations and manufacturing processes directly affect the
consistency of the glove and its’ overall performance.
Generally industrial grade gloves will not hold up as well as exam grade gloves.
Industrial grade gloves may have too many defects to be considered for medical use.
However, they may be ideal for industrial applications.
Latex Gloves
- For form, fit and function, latex gloves are the best.
- Provide superior barrier protection and are durable.
CAUTION: Latex gloves contain natural rubber latex that may cause allergic reactions. Do
not use latex gloves if you or someone you may come in contact with is allergic to latex. Use
a synthetic alternative such as vinyl or nitrile.
Vinyl Gloves
- Vinyl gloves are made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride).
- Popular alternative to latex because they are latex free and inexpensive.
- Downside: Vinyl is not as durable and provides poor barrier protection.
Nitrile Gloves
- Nitrile is an elastic material similar to latex, but is NOT latex. Nitrile gloves are usually
BLUE.
- More puncture and abrasion-resistant than vinyl and latex.
- Popular with healthcare providers, mechanics and persons involved in industrial
applications.
- Downside: Nitrile is more expensive than latex or vinyl.
Medical Grade Gloves
- All medical grade gloves have FDA oversight and approval.
- Medical grade gloves are mandatory for anyone coming in contact with blood borne
pathogens (blood, urine, saliva, etc.).
- If the box does not say “EXAM”, it is not medical grade.
Industrial Grade Gloves
- A term used to distinguish disposable gloves used for industrial or non-medical purposes.
- Industrial grade gloves are popular in industrial and food service markets where there are
no blood borne pathogen issues.
Powdered Gloves
- Cornstarch is used to powder gloves, which helps with donning.
- Powdered gloves are usually less expensive than powder free.
- Downside: Powder can go airborne during donning and removal, which can be inhaled into
the lungs. Anything attached to the powder is also inhaled. This is one reason why powder
free gloves are more popular.
Powder Free Gloves
- Powder free gloves have risen in popularity because of latex allergies. Power free gloves
generally have lower protein levels than powdered gloves, so the risk of latex allergy is less.
- Since powder free gloves do not have powder, the chance of latex proteins attaching to the
powder and going airborne is virtually eliminated.
- Downside: Powder free gloves are more expensive than powdered gloves due to extra
steps in the manufacturing process.
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Medical - Used in Clinical Labs; Dentistry; Nursing Home Care; Patient Exams; Veterinarians
Industrial/Food Service - Used in Restaurants; Mechanics; Airport Security; Food Processing; Small Part Handling
Industry Standard Food Service - Used in Restaurants ; Fast Food Outlets; Convenience Stores