Gloves for concrete work: which ones to use for greater professional protection.

Concrete pouring is one of the most critical and demanding activities in the construction, building, and civil works sector. It not only involves handling machinery, vibrating tools, and heavy materials, but it also continuously exposes the worker to a highly aggressive chemical substance: fresh concrete.

At Sekureco.eu, we often observe how the choice of protective gloves is underestimated in this task. Many workers resort to conventional textile or leather gloves, thinking that mechanical resistance is the only determining factor. However, gloves for fresh concrete must withstand a complex chemical mixture with a highly alkaline pH (which usually ranges between 12 and 13). We know that this level of alkalinity can cause severe chemical burns, allergic contact dermatitis, and chronic skin sensitization if the aggressive agent remains in prolonged contact with the skin.

In this article, we will analyze from a technical and regulatory perspective what characteristics a protective glove for concrete pouring must have to ensure the worker's safety and comply with current European legislation.

Technical explanation: The science of protection against concrete

To select the appropriate glove for concrete pouring, we must understand the interaction between the glove material and the composition of the cement. Cement is not only abrasive due to its aggregates (sand and gravel), but it is also a source of hexavalent chromium Cr VI, which represents a potent sensitizing agent.

Regulatory compliance for concrete gloves

A glove suitable for concrete pouring is not just a work glove; it must be, above all, a glove for chemical protection. Therefore, it must comply with the EN ISO 374-1:2016+A1:2018 standard. This standard specifies the requirements for determining the resistance of glove materials to degradation by hazardous chemicals.

Additionally, since it is a construction environment, the glove must comply with the EN 388:2016+A1:2018, which measures mechanical resistance against:

• Abrasion: the ability to resist rubbing against aggregates. We look for levels 3 or 4 (on a scale of 0 to 4).

• Cut (Circular blade): resistance to cutting by sharp objects.

• Tear: resistance to traction.

• Puncture: resistance to puncturing by rods or sharp objects.

Waterproofing and 100% impermeability

The most critical technical characteristic is waterproofing. A glove for concrete must be 100% waterproof. We must avoid gloves with textile supports on the back, as these act like sponges: they absorb water with cement particles and keep them in direct contact with the skin, worsening the chemical injury through "occlusion".

When are concrete gloves used and what are the associated risks?

The use of gloves is mandatory during all phases of concrete pouring: from the pouring of the concrete truck, through the use of the concrete vibrator (which generates vibrations that can prematurely degrade low-quality materials), to the manual smoothing of the surface.

Risks we must mitigate:

1. Caustic burns: caused by direct contact with cement paste.

2. Cement dermatitis: a very common occupational disease resulting from exposure to chromium and alkaline pH.

3. Hypothermia and moisture: prolonged contact with water on cold days can compromise the worker's health.

4. Mechanical abrasion: unprotected skin suffers micro-abrasions that facilitate the entry of chemicals into the bloodstream.

Examples of recommended products and categories

After years of experience in the occupational protection sector, we have determined suitable gloves for the optimal protection of these tasks, which is why we recommend gloves that combine total waterproofing with a robust coating.

• High-thickness nitrile gloves: such as the Nitrile glove with mechanical resistance, which thanks to nitrile, offers excellent resistance to mechanical abrasion and a superior chemical barrier against basic compounds.

• PVC chemical protection gloves: are the preferred option for jobs where the worker must immerse their hands in the mixture. PVC is extremely resistant to bases and provides a very long lifespan.

• Work gloves with winter lining: provide exceptional grip even in extreme cold and humidity conditions.

Frequently asked questions about which gloves to use for concrete pouring

1. Why are reinforced fabric gloves not recommended for concrete?

As we explained, fabric gloves absorb the concrete slurry. Fresh cement trapped in the fibers keeps the chemical burn active against the skin, preventing it from drying or breathing.

2. What does the "beaker" pictogram on my gloves mean?

It indicates that the glove has been certified under the EN ISO 374 standard as resistant to chemicals. If a letter like "K" appears under the pictogram, it means it has passed tests against 40% caustic soda.

3. How can I tell if my glove has lost its waterproofing?

Any crack, hardening of the polymer, or tear in the outer layer invalidates the glove. If water penetrates, the glove must be replaced immediately.

4. Is it necessary to wash the gloves after the workday?

Yes. An exterior rinse with clean water is recommended while wearing them, and they should be left to dry in a ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, which can crack the material.