WHAT KIND OF GLOVE DO YOU REALLY NEED?
A Quick PPE Guide for Worksites – By PADDIE, your everyday safety buddy
Hi, I’m PADDIE — your everyday safety buddy.
Let’s talk hands. You use them to lift, hold, carry, fix, grip — every day on site. And guess what? They’re also one of the most injured parts of the body at work.
But here’s the catch: just wearing gloves isn’t enough.
Wearing the right gloves is what actually keeps you safe.
One glove doesn’t fit all.
Think of it this way — would you wear flip-flops to a construction site?
Exactly. So don’t wear the wrong gloves to do the job either.
Let’s break it down:
CUT RESISTANT GLOVES
Use these when working with glass, sheet metal, blades, or anything sharp. They’re made to protect against deep cuts and slices.
CHEMICAL RESISTANT GLOVES
If you’re handling solvents, acids, or cleaning agents, these are your best bet. They protect your skin from burns, irritation, and long-term damage.
ELECTRICAL INSULATED GLOVES
Working around live wires? Don’t even touch anything until you’re wearing these. They reduce the risk of electric shock.
Impact gloves
These have padded sections to protect your knuckles and fingers from blunt force. Ideal for mechanical or construction tasks where tools or debris can hit your hands.
HEAT RESISTANT GLOVES
Perfect for welders, kitchen staff, or anyone working with hot surfaces or materials. These keep you safe from burns.
Here’s what I see too often:
• People using leather gloves to mix chemicals
• Wearing torn or old gloves that offer zero protection
• Not using gloves at all because “they’re uncomfortable”
Let’s be clear: No PPE is comfortable when you’re injured.
Quick PADDIE tips:
✅ Know your task — then match the glove to it
✅ Check the fit — not too loose, not too tight
✅ Inspect gloves before each use
✅ Don’t share gloves unless they’re properly cleaned
✅ Replace worn-out or torn gloves immediately
⸻
Let’s hear from you:
What’s the most dangerous thing you’ve ever handled without gloves?
And what kind of gloves do you use most often at work?
Drop a comment — someone could learn from your experience.
And don’t forget to share this with your colleagues, site managers, or even your boss. Let’s make work safer for everyone.
I’m PADDIE — your safety buddy.
I’ll help you spot the danger before the danger spots you