Work Gloves

Learning Objectives:

This lesson is designed to help mechanics understand the vital role that work gloves play in ensuring hand safety and operational efficiency in automotive and mechanical environments. Learners will become familiar with the various types of gloves available such as general-purpose, heat-resistant, cut-resistant, and chemical-resistant and learn how to match glove types to specific hazards encountered during repair and maintenance tasks. Additionally, the lesson covers important practices for proper glove fit, regular inspection, cleaning, storage, and timely replacement to ensure optimal protection. 

1. Choose the Right Glove for the Job

   • Don’t use chemical-resistant gloves for welding or heavy lifting. Match glove type to the specific task and hazards involved.
     
     

2. Check for Proper Fit

   • Gloves should be snug but not tight. Loose gloves can get caught in tools or machinery; tight gloves can reduce circulation and dexterity.
     
     

3. Inspect Before Use

   • Always check for rips, holes, or worn areas. Damaged gloves can compromise protection.
     
     

4. Keep Gloves Clean

   • Wash reusable gloves regularly to remove oils, solvents, and debris. Dirty gloves can cause skin irritation or reduce grip.
     
     

5. Know When to Replace Them

   • Disposable gloves (like nitrile) should be discarded after one use or if contaminated. Reusable gloves should be replaced if torn, worn out, or no longer effective.
     
     

6. Store Gloves Properly

   • Keep gloves in a clean, dry place away from heat and chemicals when not in use.

Why Work Gloves Matter in the Workshop 

• Prevent Cuts and Punctures: Sharp tools, metal edges, and broken parts can cause deep injuries.
  
  

• Protect Against Burns: Engines, exhausts, and welding equipment can easily cause thermal burns if hands aren't shielded.
  
  

• Shield from Chemicals: Fluids like oil, brake cleaner, and antifreeze can irritate or damage skin upon contact.
  
  

• Improve Grip: Gloves help maintain a secure hold on greasy or slippery tools and parts.
  
  

• Reduce Fatigue: Padded gloves can cushion hands from vibration and impact, especially when using power tools.

Summary:

Work gloves are a small investment with huge safety benefits. They protect your most valuable tools  your hands  from a wide range of workshop hazards. By selecting the right type of glove for each task and making glove use a regular habit, mechanics can significantly reduce injuries and improve both comfort and performance on the job. 

References:

1. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (n.d.). Hand Protection. Retrieved June 17, 2025, from https://www.osha.gov/hand-protection
   
   

2. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2020). Selecting Gloves for Protection Against Chemicals and Cuts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2017-162/default.html
   
   

3. Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS). (2021). Gloves — Hand Protection. Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/prevention/ppe/gloves.html
   
   

4. Health and Safety Executive (HSE). (2022). Protective Gloves — Selecting the Right Gloves for Your Job. Retrieved from https://www.hse.gov.uk/toolbox/ppe/gloves.htm
   
   

5. Ansell. (n.d.). Types of Work Gloves and Their Applications. Retrieved from https://www.ansell.com/us/en/industries/automotive/hand-protection