PVC Gloves

Standards and Certification

This collection includes gloves tested to EN 374:2016 for chemical resistance; individual products list specific chemicals, breakthrough times, and permeation levels. ISO 11193-2:2006 covers PVC gloves in medical examination contexts. Always verify the exact standard and performance level on the product page—PVC offers broad resistance to dilute acids, alkalis, alcohols, and oils, but not all gloves are certified for every chemical. Check the manufacturer's chemical resistance chart before specifying.

Key Selection Criteria

Length matters. Elbow-length PVC gloves suit tank cleaning and deep immersion work; standard wrist-length models fit food prep and general cleaning. Coating style determines grip and flexibility: fully coated options are waterproof but less breathable, while PVC-coated knit wrist gloves offer comfort for extended wear. Disposable PVC gloves work for single-use hygiene tasks; heavy-duty reusable models handle repeated chemical exposure. Fingerless PVC gloves improve dexterity when full-hand protection isn't required—common in parts inspection and light assembly.

Materials and Practical Limits

Polyvinyl chloride is abrasion-resistant, weather-resistant, and flexible at room temperature, but it stiffens in cold environments and degrades under prolonged exposure to strong solvents (ketones, aromatic hydrocarbons). PVC gloves resist diluted sulfuric acid and sodium hydroxide effectively; they're less suitable for concentrated chemicals or high-heat applications. The most common mistake? Assuming all PVC gloves offer the same chemical protection—resistance depends on PVC thickness, formulation, and additives. Always cross-check the chemical you're handling against the glove's breakthrough data.

Use Cases and Colour Coding

Blue PVC gloves are standard in food processing and catering for visibility against raw protein. Green and red variants support department or task colour-coding (e.g., green for vegetable prep, red for raw meat). Black PVC gloves hide staining in automotive shops and manufacturing. Long PVC gloves (elbow-length) protect forearms during cleaning operations involving immersion in chemical baths or large sinks. PVC cleaning gloves handle bleach, disinfectants, and alcohol-based sanitisers—ideal for janitorial and facility maintenance work.

Care and Replacement

Reusable PVC gloves should be rinsed after each use to remove chemical residue, then air-dried away from direct heat. Inspect for cracks, brittleness, or discolouration before reuse—these signal material breakdown. Replace immediately if you notice swelling, stiffness, or loss of flexibility; compromised PVC offers reduced chemical resistance. Disposable PVC gloves are single-use only and should not be washed or reused. Store PVC gloves in a cool, dry location away from ozone sources (electric motors, UV light) that accelerate degradation.