PPE has been a necessity long before the pandemic. But as increased demand has wreaked havoc on production processes, businesses need to pivot from their typical practices to adapt while still keeping their employees and customers protected.
Nitrile gloves are one of the many PPE products in short supply due to COVID-19. As the priority for nitrile gloves is claimed by hospitals, what can the other industries who need protective gloves use? Are other options, such as vinyl gloves, viable?
Different industries and job duties require different levels of protection. Check out the chart to understand the differences:
Vinyl Gloves | Nitrile Gloves |
| Worn for short tasks | Worn for Long Tasks |
| Low Chemical Resistance | High Chemical Resistance |
| Medium Puncture Resistance | High Puncture Resistance |
| Low Cost, Widely Available | High Cost, Often Shortages |
| Available in Medical or Industrial Grade | Available in Medical or Industrial Grade |
| Ideal for various tasks in the food, automotive, dental, and industrial industries. | Ideal for various tasks in the medical and janitorial industries |
Vinyl Gloves
Vinyl gloves are appropriate as an entry-level form of PPE. Made of a petroleum-based film, they help protect a wearer’s hands in during short-term, low-risk tasks. While vinyl is not as chemical or puncture-resistant as nitrile, it is a suitable alternative for most light applications. Plus, it offers good dexterity and is the most cost-effective and widely available option. Vinyl gloves can be used while prepping food, painting, or when working with wires.
Nitrile Gloves
Nitrile gloves have been the premier choice of glove usage since the 1980s after they emerged as an alternative to latex. They are durable and the most chemical-resistant glove option, making them a good choice for those who handle hazardous and corrosive material.
Unless a job task specifically requires the wearer to utilize expensive and unavailable nitrile gloves, consider switching to vinyl. Safety Pros offers both nitrile and vinyl glove options among a variety of other FDA-certified PPE products. Talk with us for a free consultation regarding the correct PPE options to keep your workforce safe, happy, and protected.