Repairing cars is a difficult and often laborious career, and many hours can be spent fixing a single automotive issue. As a mechanic, you need equipment that is resilient over long periods of time, and that will not only allow you to work easily, but also keep you safe. People in the automotive business come into contact with many hazardous chemical agents every day. It is important to take precautions against occupational skin diseases, which could be career ending and life threatening. Your first lines of defense against such dangerous materials are your gloves. Choosing the right gloves for your auto repair business is key to keeping you and your employees safe. Here is some guidance for you to keep in mind when outfitting your team.
Nitrile gloves
Nitrile is the most reliable against the chemicals you come into contact with every day, making it the best disposable glove material. This material is extremely puncture resistant and the gloves are often textured, which is useful when working with tools. Nitrile’s long shelf life allows you to buy in bulk without worry of expiration. Most importantly, nitrile gloves are latex-free, allowing universal use within your shop.
A best-selling glove recommended to mechanics is the Ultragard UGNT8PF 8 MilNitrile Exam Powder-Free Gloves. Touting all of the positive features mentioned above, these gloves are also equipped with extended length, which protects your wrists and upper arms from chemical exposure. Companies like PalmFlex offer free shipping on orders over $80 in the continental U.S. It should be noted that these advantages often come at a higher price, making them a less cost-efficient option for some businesses. That being said, the safety and durability of this material makes it worth the extra money.
Latex gloves
Latex gloves are a more-affordable, although less-inclusive option. Gloves made of latex have a snug fit, which reduces the chance of chemical irritation. Latex gloves are flexible, allowing for you to use the full dexterity of your hands. Due to the nature of the material, you also retain high levels of touch sensitivity. If your shop is environmentally minded, working with latex gloves reduces your environmental impact, because the rubber is biodegradable. The Ultragard UGET 13 MilLatex Exam Powder-Free Gloves are a great latex option because they’re double the thickness of standard latex gloves, making them tear and puncture resistant. If someone in your business has a latex allergy, don’t cut corners to save money. Latex allergies are very serious, and there are better material options available for these workers.
Avoid vinyl
Although vinyl disposable gloves are great for some industries, they have no place in the auto-repair business. Vinyl offers some protection against chemicals, but due to the harsh nature of the ones used in cars, it’s best to avoid this material in case of failure. Vinyl gloves are better suited for jobs that require constant glove changing, such as food processing and preparation or printing. They are not durable enough to keep up with the rigor of auto repair. Finally, vinyl gloves don’t offer a tight fit, leaving the skin easily exposed to hazards.
Finding the glove material that works best for your company is easy once you consider your needs, budget, and personnel. Nitrile gloves are quickly becoming a favorite within many fields, because of their resistance, durability, and versatility. They are easy to work in and don’t trigger latex allergies. Latex gloves are still an option, barring any employees having skin sensitivities to this material. By taking the time to research and plan for the best protection for your business, your co-workers will be safe in your hands.
