Cut-Resistant vs. Puncture-Resistant Gloves

When you work in an environment with rough debris, sharp implements, and hazardous materials, providing yourself with proper protection matters. So many workers go with cut- and puncture-resistant gloves. These gloves help keep workers safe from slashing, crushing, punctures, lacerations, and abrasions that commonly occur in the workplace.

It’s common to mistake these gloves as one and the same. However, both have their own distinct features and offer differing levels of protection. So what are the differences between cut-resistant vs. puncture-resistant gloves? Let’s look and find out.

Cut-Resistant Gloves

Cut-resistant gloves protect a tool from breaking through the outer layer of a work glove. They withstand cuts from sharp objects, such as blades, glass, tools, and knives in automotive or construction jobs. They help reduce the chance of cuts and abrasions after using tools, significantly reducing workplace injury risks. Cut-resistant work gloves also make for excellent protection against loose debris.

Puncture-Resistant Gloves

Puncture-resistant gloves offer protection against force or stress before a sharp implement or tool can break its way through. They may sound like cut-resistant gloves, but they focus on providing resistance to needles, tattoo guns, and other fine-pointed implements instead of sharp tools. While puncture-resistant gloves may not offer complete protection, they can reduce the chances of injury. If you’re in a situation where you have Kevlar-based gloves, supplement them with an additional layer over the top to provide further protection.

Complying With OSHA and Assessing Hazards

It’s essential to remember that no gloves are entirely cut- or puncture-proof. “Resistant” gloves provide additional durability and protection against cuts and punctures. However, there’s still a slight possibility that even the most durable glove can’t completely protect you against cuts or punctures.

Gloves must remain compliant with OSHA requirements by passing edge tests. Understanding the cut levels, testing methods, and types of protection that gloves need to withstand will allow workers to rely on them for daily work shifts.

While they sound similar, cut-resistant and puncture-resistant gloves offer different levels of protection. Depending on your job and your protection needs, you should reach out to your supervisor about the gloves you need that will help you excel in your performance and safety.