Why do nitrile gloves tear?

Firstly, it is important to check the sizing of your gloves and to remember that your hands change over time and the seasons.

For example, in warmer months and climates, during pregnancy, hormonal changes, due to certain medications your hands can swell and may not always be noticeable.

This often requires sizing up a glove in these times so having two difference sizes is recommended. If your gloves do not slide on with ease, and you experience any thinning, the gloves are too small. This will stretch the material and damage the gloves if trying to force these on, and may likely cause ripping if this material is stretched too far. 

On the flip side, it is also important to ensure that your gloves fit well and are not hanging off as gloves that are too large have excess material that can catch or snag.

Sweaty hands can prove more difficult to apply gloves, so ensure hands are thoroughly dry before application. 

Jewellery such as rings, piercings, and long nails that are over the free edge will also contribute towards ripping of the gloves as the puncture from the sharp edge will turn into a tear.  Never cut the edges of your gloves to accommodate your nails as this makes the gloves redundant and they will not protect you.

You must put on gloves properly, so they don't tear. If they do tear or puncture, you will need to throw the damaged gloves out and wear new ones. Always put on gloves slowly and carefully, without rushing through the process. Don't flex your fingers too much until they are inside the designated holes. 

Gloves should only be stored in a cool, dry location and never in direct sunlight or near heat sources as this will perish and thin the material.

Like all nail products, take note of the expiry date. Remember the duration is not from purchase, it is from manufacture and you will find this information on your gloves box or certification. Always throw gloves and any PPE away that is past its expiry date.

When gloves are worn past their chemical resistance, they will start to perish from the chemical contact and may be shown with tears in the material. If gloves are also worn and chemicals used that have not been tested with your gloves, this will also occur.