Wearing gloves is essential for protecting your hands from a wide range of hazards commonly found on construction sites. Gloves not only help prevent immediate injuries like cuts, punctures, and abrasions, but also reduce the risk of long-term health issues caused by repeated exposure to chemicals, vibration, or extreme temperatures.
OSHA requires employers to provide and ensure the use of appropriate hand protection. Employees are responsible for understanding when gloves are needed and wearing the correct glove for the task.
Common hand hazards on construction sites
- Sharp edges (metal, glass, tools)
- Splinters and rough materials (wood, rebar)
- Chemicals (solvents, adhesives, sealants)
- Heat and cold exposure
- Vibration from power tools
- Pinch points and crush hazards
Types of gloves
| Glove type | Use case |
| Leather gloves | General construction; handling rough materials; protection from abrasions |
| Cut-resistant gloves | Handling sharp tools, sheet metal, and glass |
| Chemical-resistant gloves | Working with solvents, adhesives, and cleaning agents (check recommendations from chemical manufacturers) |
| Rubber or nitrile gloves | Protection from oils, greases, and some chemicals |
| Impact-resistant gloves | Using power tools, demolition, and heavy material handling |
| Insulated gloves | Cold weather work and handling hot materials |
| Anti-vibration gloves | Operating jackhammers, grinders, and other vibrating tools |
| Disposable gloves | Short-term protection from contaminants or light chemical exposure |
Best practices for hand protection
- Inspect gloves before use and look for tears, holes, and signs of wear
- Replace damaged gloves immediately and never tape or patch gloves
- Remove gloves safely to avoid skin contact with contaminated surfaces
- Wash hands after glove use, especially when handling chemicals
- Store gloves properly to keep them clean and dry to extend their life
- Never wear gloves around rotating equipment as they can get caught in the machinery and cause serious injury
Discussion questions
- What tasks today require hand protection?
- Are you using the right glove for the job?
- Do you know where to get replacement gloves if yours are worn or damaged?
Key takeaway
Your hands are one of your most valuable tools, essential for almost every task you perform, both on the jobsite and off. It is crucial to protect them by choosing the right gloves for the specific hazards you encounter. Always inspect your gloves before use, replace them if they are damaged, and follow best practices to keep your hands safe.
OSHA standard reference: 29 CFR 1926.95(a) – Personal Protective Equipment
Related standard: 29 CFR 1926.28(a) – Personal Protective Equipment for Specific Hazards