PPE/Specific/TBT-PPE-027
Glove Selection for Construction Hazards
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Toolbox Talk
Glove Selection for Construction Hazards
Construction work exposes hands to cuts, abrasion, chemicals, heat, vibration, and crushing. No single glove protects against all hazards, so selecting the correct type for each task is essential. Wearing the wrong glove can be worse than wearing none because it provides a false sense of security. This talk explains the main glove types, their performance ratings, and how to choose the right protection for the job.
Key Hazards
Cut injuries from handling sharp materials with gloves rated too low for the hazard
Chemical burns from using non-resistant gloves when handling cement or solvents
Reduced grip causing dropped loads when gloves are worn or not suited to the task
Dermatitis from prolonged glove wear trapping moisture against the skin
Control Measures
- Select gloves based on the specific hazard identified in the task risk assessment.
- Use cut-resistant gloves rated EN 388 Level C or above for handling steel, glass, and sharp materials.
- Wear nitrile chemical-resistant gloves when handling cement, adhesives, solvents, and resins.
- Use thermal gloves when handling hot materials such as asphalt, bitumen, or heated pipe sections.
- Choose anti-vibration gloves for prolonged use of breakers, compactors, and vibrating equipment.
- Check that gloves fit correctly — oversized gloves reduce dexterity and grip during fine tasks.
- Replace gloves when they show signs of wear, cuts, chemical degradation, or loss of grip.
- Use liner gloves beneath chemical gloves for extended wear to absorb moisture and reduce dermatitis.
- Brief operatives on the correct glove type for each task during the pre-task briefing.
Remember
- Select gloves based on the specific hazard in the task risk assessment, not a one-size-fits-all approach
- Use cut-resistant gloves rated EN 388 Level C or above for handling steel, glass, and sharp items
- Wear nitrile chemical-resistant gloves when handling cement, adhesives, solvents, or resins
- Replace gloves when they show wear, cuts, chemical damage, or loss of grip on surfaces
- Check that gloves fit correctly because oversized gloves reduce dexterity and grip significantly
- Brief operatives on the correct glove type for each specific task at the pre-task briefing
Applicable Legislation: Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 · BS EN 388:2016 (Mechanical Risks) · BS EN 374 (Chemical Risks) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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