Protective gloves are so common that we often take them for granted – and unfortunately, too lightly. Over the years, many myths have grown around work gloves, which can lead to improper selection, excessive turnover, and even a real threat to the employee.
Below are 5 of the most common myths that are definitely not worth believing.
❌ MYTH 1: “All protective gloves protect equally”
This is one of the most common mistakes. Gloves differ in material, construction, coating and certificates. They behave differently in contact with oil, differently with a hot surface and differently with sharp sheet metal.
For example, a glove with a polyurethane coating may be ideal for assembly, but it will not protect your hand from cuts or heat. On the other hand, a cut-resistant glove may have a low level of grip and will not work well for precision work.
Always choose gloves for a specific hazard and work environment, not “universally”.
❌ MYTH 2: “Higher resistance = better glove”
More is not always better. High cut-resistant gloves (e.g. EN 388 level F) may be thicker, less flexible and less comfortable than level C or D gloves.
The result? Employees are reluctant to wear them, take them off during work, which defeats the whole purpose of protection.
A glove that is “sufficient” and is willingly worn is better than a “maximum” glove that is not worn.
❌ MYTH 3: “One pair of gloves is enough for everything”
In practice, it is rare for one pair to meet all needs. Different gloves are needed for handling heavy materials, different ones for working with a hand tool, and still others for contact with oils or liquids.
Models are often rotated, e.g. one glove for assembly, another for packaging, and yet another for transport.
Glove diversity in a plant = better protection, longer service life and lower costs in the long run.
❌ MYTH 4: “The thicker the glove, the better the protection”
Thickness does not always translate into protection. Modern technical fibers (such as HPPE, Kevlar®, steel, aramids) allow the creation of light and thin gloves with very high resistance – even level F according to ISO 13997.
A thick glove made of ordinary material can only protect against abrasion, but will not provide real protection against cuts or temperature.
Material technology counts, not just thickness. Check standards and certificates (EN 388, EN 407, EN ISO 13997).
❌ MYTH 5: “Cheap gloves are more profitable”
Lower quality gloves often wear out faster, have a worse grip, are less comfortable, increase wear and rotation (even 2-3 times faster). The unit cost may be lower, but the total cost — much higher.
Cheap gloves are often a false saving. It is better to choose a model that fits and is durable, even at a higher price.
What should you remember?
- Not every glove is suitable for everything.
- Glove selection should be based on real risk.
- Wearing comfort is just as important as the level of protection.
- A glove is a tool – it is worth treating it as a piece of equipment at the workplace.
- It is worth investing in user education – a conscious employee = a safe employee.
Are you looking for gloves that will provide real protection, not just a label with a standard? Contact our consultants – we will help you choose the model best suited to your working conditions: https://tegro.pl/contact/