When it comes to protecting your hands and preventing the spread of infection or disease, it's important to use the right type of protective glove, but with so many options on the market, how do you know which one to choose?
Latex gloves and nitrile gloves are two of the most popular options, but what's the difference between these two alternatives and how to you choose the right gloves for you?
Latex gloves
Made from natural rubber, which is derived from the sap of the rubber tree, latex gloves have been used for decades in the care and food industry, and are known for their excellent fit and flexibility. They are also incredibly elastic and stretchy, making them easy to put on and take off.
One of the main advantages of latex gloves is their sensitivity and dexterity. With a high level of touch sensitivity, they are a good choice for tasks that require fine motor skills or precision. The elasticity allows them to conform to the shape of the hand and be in tune with the wearer's movements. This makes them a popular choice in the healthcare industry, where they are often used for tasks, such as administering injections or taking blood samples.
Latex gloves are also known for their puncture resistance and ability to protect against a wide range of chemicals and pathogens. Resistant to a variety of bacterial and viral infections, they effectively prevent the spread of disease.
On the downside, latex gloves contain proteins that can cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to latex. Symptoms can range from mild irritation and itching to more severe reactions such as anaphylaxis.
Nitrile gloves
Made from synthetic rubber, which is derived from petroleum, nitrile gloves were developed as an alternative solution for people with latex allergies. They have gained in popularity in recent years due to their durability and chemical resistance.
One of the main advantages of nitrile gloves is their superior puncture resistance and chemical resistance - nitrile gloves are three times more puncture resistant than latex gloves and are able to withstand a wider range of chemicals, including those found in laboratories and medical settings. This makes them a popular choice in the healthcare and laboratory industries, where they are often used for tasks, such as handling hazardous chemicals or handling specimens.
Nitrile gloves are also more resistant to temperature, making them a good choice for use in extreme weather conditions.
However, they are not as flexible and do not fit as well as latex gloves, which can make them less comfortable to wear for long periods of time and make tasks requiring fine motor skills more difficult.
Conclusion
Both latex and nitrile gloves are an effective means of protecting our hands and preventing the spread of infection or disease. Your choice between the two options should be made depending on the specific needs and requirements of the particular task or industry.
If you are still not sure which gloves to choose and you would like some further assistance, please do not hesitate to call 01209 314759 to speak to one of our advisors.
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