Across diverse industries, workers’ hands are constantly exposed to hazards, such as sharp objects, extreme temperatures, toxic chemicals and heavy machinery. Despite material and technological advancements in safety glove manufacturing, hand injuries remain a leading cause of lost-time incidents in the workplace, resulting in the most Days Away, Restricted, or Transferred (DART) cases, according to the National Safety Council.
While this data reinforces the critical nature of proper hand protection, selecting the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for specific tasks is only one part of a comprehensive workplace safety strategy. Employers and workers alike must also understand the lifespan of safety gloves and know when to replace them to maintain optimal hand protection.
Below, we explore the factors that impact glove durability, different signs of wear and best practices for maximizing their longevity.
The Balance Between Safety and Comfort
Are those gloves worn out or just broken in?
Some gloves can become more flexible and comfortable with regular use, offering better dexterity as they conform to the shape of the user's hands. However, it's crucial to distinguish between gloves that are broken in versus those that are starting to break down. While a well-fitted pair of safety gloves can enhance comfort and efficiency, their ability to provide adequate protection is compromised once signs of wear and tear appear.
Different types of gloves degrade in distinct ways depending on their material and use. For example, repeated contact with sharp objects can weaken the fibers of cut-resistant gloves, leading to fraying or small tears that compromise their protective properties. Similarly, regular exposure to harsh chemicals can cause swelling, cracking or thinning of chemical-resistant gloves. Sometimes, a glove that looks intact may actually allow seepage that can endanger the user.
Ultimately, you will need to use your best judgment. Look for indicators of wear such as color variations in the coating and liner, areas with surface abrasion or outright holes in the glove. Since even a minor lapse in protection can lead to accidents, it’s worth taking a few extra moments at the start of each shift to inspect your gloves and ensure they are still fit for service. If not, they should be properly disposed of immediately.
A Closer Look at the Lifespan of Different Safety Gloves
How long your gloves last depends on several factors, including the glove type, its material construction, its use, how often and long it’s being used, and how well you take care of it.
Here’s a closer look at common glove types, their typical lifespan and factors that impact longevity:
-
Nitrile disposable gloves: When stored properly in a cool, dry place, these gloves can have a shelf life of up to five years. However, prolonged exposure to heat or sunlight can accelerate the break down of nitrile polymers. This usually manifests as a loss of elasticity, discoloration, hardening and diminished tensile strength. Remember, never reuse disposable gloves to avoid cross-contamination. If they come into contact with hazardous materials, replace them as soon as possible.
-
Leather gloves: Known for their durability, leather gloves can serve workers for years if properly maintained. However, exposure to extreme heat; excessive accumulation of dirt, grime or chemicals; and repeated wetting and drying cycles can deplete natural oils, leading to stiffness, deforming and cracking.
-
Kevlar gloves: While boasting incredible strength, Kevlar gloves tend to lose their effectiveness after about 10 washes, as frequent laundering gradually weakens the protective fibers. We recommend using mild, pH-neutral detergents free from harsh chemicals or strong oxidizers, along with warm water (140–194°F / 60–90°C) on a gentle cycle. Kevlar can also be vulnerable to imperceptible wear, so always adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines and implement a strict replacement schedule.
-
Rubber and latex gloves: While these gloves typically have a shelf life of approximately three years when stored under optimal conditions, their actual lifespan can be significantly shortened by the very chemicals they are intended to protect the wearer against. Some substances may cause rapid degradation, while others may have a slower, more insidious effect. For example, certain solvents can quickly dissolve latex, while others may cause it to swell and weaken over time.
-
Coated work gloves: Gloves with coatings, such as polyurethane or nitrile coatings, extend grip and durability but can wear out faster in high-friction environments. For instance, constantly rubbing against rough or sharp edges can cause the coating to thin or peel away over time. Meanwhile, repeated exposure to strong solvents or harsh chemicals can cause the coating to degrade or delaminate, reducing its protective properties.
Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for storage, use, care and replacement as these recommendations are designed to maximize the lifespan and performance of the gloves. However, keep in mind that real-world conditions, such as exposure to extreme environments, specific workplace hazards and usage frequency, can impact shelf life and accelerate wear. As such, we also recommend training employees on inspecting gloves, identifying signs of degradation and understanding when replacement is necessary.
Best Practices for Hand Protection Programs
Maximizing the lifespan of safety gloves begins with proper storage and consistent maintenance. Here are some tips:
-
Store in optimal conditions. Always store gloves in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area–away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures and moisture. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can degrade glove materials and compromise their protective properties.
-
Keep gloves clean and dry. This is especially important for leather or fabric-based gloves, which can deteriorate more quickly when left damp with regularity. For non-disposable gloves, follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to minimize wear.
-
Rotate PPE stock. Implement a first-in, first-out system to ensure older gloves are used before the end of their shelf life. This practice prevents gloves from sitting unused and degrading in storage.
-
Establish a glove distribution and laundering program. Implement a routine schedule for issuing new gloves and collecting used ones for proper cleaning or disposal. A consistent glove rotation system ensures workers always have access to clean, functional PPE; it can also help prevent premature wear caused by improper laundering or overuse.
Spring offers the perfect opportunity for companies and individuals to review their PPE inventory and replace gloves that are outdated or damaged. To reduce administrative burden, consider partnering with a supplier to arrange recurring deliveries. These arrangements can usually be tailored to specific usage patterns and glove types, essentially automating replenishment and ensuring the appropriate PPE is always available to employees.