The Ultimate Purchasing Guide for Coated Gloves

Post Date - 
July 7, 2025
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Why Are Coated Gloves So Important?

🛠 High Frequency of Hand Injuries in Work Environments

  • Approximately 1.8 million U.S. workers suffer hand injuries annually, accounting for 25% of all occupational injuries.
  • Per BLS data, 238,900 workplace hand injuries were recorded between 2021–2022, with 71% preventable by wearing gloves.
  • 70% of injured workers wore no gloves, while the remaining 30% used ill-fitting gloves.

💸 Significant Economic Costs

  • Each severe hand injury (e.g., cuts, punctures, fractures) averages $$40,000$$118,000 in costs.
  • Annual U.S. expenditures for wrist/hand injuries exceed $740 million.

Choosing the right gloves = lives saved, costs reduced, and efficiency improved.

Coating Materials & Advantages Comparison

MaterialAdvantagesLimitationsApplication Scenarios
LatexSoft feel, excellent gripMay cause allergiesCleaning, electrical work, light industrial tasks
NitrileOil-resistant, chemical-resistant, puncture-resistantSlightly less flexibleAuto repair, painting, leak inspection
PU (Polyurethane)Thin, tactile sensitivity, high flexibilityPoor grip in wet environmentsElectronics assembly, precision work
PVCChemical-resistant, wear-resistantPoor breathability, less flexibleChemical industry, heavy industry
NeopreneThermal insulation, chemical resistanceSlightly bulky and stiffCold-chain operations, laboratories

How to Select the Best Coated Gloves?

Identify Work Environment & Risks

  • Wet/oily surfaces: Choose nitrile.
  • Precision assembly: Prioritize PU.
  • Chemical/high-heat exposure: Opt for PVC or neoprene.

Evaluate Coating Type

  • Palm-coated: Enhanced grip and breathability.
  • Full-dip coated: Superior waterproofing but reduced breathability.

Thickness & Size: Critical for Comfort and Safety Why Thickness and Size Matter

  • Thick gloves reduce dexterity and tactile sensitivity, hindering precision tasks.
  • Oversized gloves slip off; undersized gloves cause pressure sores or premature wear.

Ideal fit: Maintain 80–90% dexterity while ensuring protection; allow 3–5 mm (≈1/8–1/4 inch) space between thumb and fingertips.

Hand Measurement MethodTools: Soft tape measure (±1 mm accuracy). Method:

  1. Wrap tape around the widest part of the palm (excluding thumb).
  2. Keep snug but not tight.
  3. Record circumference in cm.
Hand Circumference (cm)Suggested Size (US)
17–18S (7–8)
19–20M (8–9)
21–22L (9–10)
23–24XL (10–11)
>24XXL (11–12)

(Refer to manufacturer-specific charts.)

Certification Standards: ANSI/ISEA 105 & EN 388

Understanding these standards ensures optimal protection.

ANSI/ISEA 105 Cut-Resistance Levels (US Standard)

LevelCut Resistance (grams)Recommended Use
A1200–499 gLight tasks (office maintenance, light handling)
A2500–999 gWarehousing, general assembly
A31,000–1,499 gConstruction, light automotive work
A41,500–2,199 gMetalworking, use of sharp tools
A5–A62,200–3,999 gHeavy-duty tasks requiring higher protection
A7–A9≥4,000 gExtreme risk environments (industrial stamping, heavy machinery)

EN 388:2016 European Glove Standards

Test (Metric)Rating ScaleUnitMeaning
Abrasion Resistance1–4cycles (100–8,000)Durability against abrasion
Blade Cut (Coupe)1–5number of cuts to failResistance to standard blade cuts
Tear Strength1–4Newtons (10–75 N)Resistance to tearing
Puncture Resistance1–4Newtons (20–150 N)Resistance to stabbing/puncture
ISO Cut (TDM‑100)A–FNewtonsHigh-level cut resistance (F highest)
Impact ProtectionP / F / XIndicates passing (P) or failing (F); X = not tested

Recommendations:

  • Thickness: Light-to-medium for balance of protection/flexibility.
  • Size: Match measured hand circumference to U.S. sizing charts.
  • Certifications:
    • Warehouse/assembly: ANSI A2–A3 or EN Blade Level 2–3 + ISO B.
    • Metal/glass handling: ANSI A4–A5 / EN ISO D–E.
    • Extreme hazards: ANSI A7+ / EN ISO F.

Cost vs. DurabilityInvesting in quality gloves outweighs frequent medical/replacement costs.

Coated Glove Care Guide

  • Cleaning: Rinse with water; air-dry naturally.
  • Avoid solvents: Prevent coating degradation.
  • Regular inspection: Replace if torn.
  • Storage: Keep in cool, dry, dark areas.

Summary & Action Steps 💡

  • Hand injuries are frequent yet preventable—proper gloves are non-negotiable.
  • Match coating material to your specific work hazards.
  • Verify size, thickness, and certifications for cost-effectiveness.
  • Proper maintenance extends glove lifespan.