Portwest PVC Fully Coated Gauntlets - Liquid Resistant General and Wet Handling

Who is this for

PVC fully coated gauntlets at this specification are used primarily by general handling operatives, maintenance workers, groundworkers, and janitorial staff who require liquid resistant hand and forearm protection during wet, damp, and abrasive handling tasks where a standard palm-coated or partially coated glove would allow liquid ingress. The three available lengths — 270mm, 350mm, and 450mm — make these gauntlets suited to a range of forearm coverage requirements, from standard wet handling tasks at 270mm to deep immersion drainage and groundwork tasks at 450mm. Procurement teams specifying general handling PPE will find the EN388:2016+A1:2018 rating of 4121X confirms maximum Level 4 abrasion resistance for rough and abrasive material contact.

Typical applications

• Drainage installation and maintenance tasks involving wet ground conditions, standing water, and abrasive pipe and aggregate handling where hand and forearm liquid protection is required.

• General construction maintenance tasks involving wet concrete, mortar, and abrasive materials where a fully coated gauntlet provides liquid resistance alongside abrasion protection.

• Janitorial and facilities management cleaning tasks involving deep sink and basin immersion, floor cleaning, and wet surface maintenance where forearm coverage beyond a standard household rubber glove is required.

• Waste and recycling operative tasks involving wet, contaminated, and abrasive materials where liquid resistant fully coated protection across the complete hand and forearm is required.

• Agriculture and horticulture tasks involving wet soil, irrigation water, and chemical-free liquid handling where forearm coverage and liquid resistance are both required.

• General maintenance and engineering tasks involving water, light oils, and liquid substances where a liquid resistant fully coated gauntlet provides reliable protection throughout the task.

How to use

Step 1: Select the correct length for the task. The 270mm length is suited to standard wet handling tasks. The 350mm length provides additional forearm coverage for tasks involving deeper liquid contact or immersion. The 450mm length is suited to deep drainage, groundwork, and full forearm immersion tasks.

Step 2: Select the correct size. Refer to the size guide on the product label. An oversized gauntlet allows liquid run-back inside the cuff during overhead or raised-arm tasks.

Step 3: Pull the gauntlet fully over the hand and up the forearm, ensuring the PVC coating covers the complete hand surface with no gaps at the finger junctions. The cuff should seat comfortably against the forearm.

Step 4: After use, wipe the outer PVC surface with a damp cloth to remove contamination and particulate matter. The smooth PVC finish is easy to clean between tasks.

Step 5: Air dry fully before storing. Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and ozone.

Step 6: Inspect before each use. Check the PVC coating for cracking, pinholing, or any visible breach. Replace when any damage is present.

Common mistakes

• Selecting the wrong length: Using a 270mm gauntlet for deep drainage or immersion tasks allows liquid to run back over the forearm and inside the cuff. Match the gauntlet length to the maximum liquid depth of the task.

• Using for strong chemical tasks: These gauntlets carry no EN374 chemical resistance rating. They are liquid resistant for general wet handling but must not be used for tasks involving strong acids, alkalis, solvents, or aggressive chemicals.

• Using for cut hazard tasks: The EN388 rating confirms low cut and puncture resistance. These gauntlets are not suitable for tasks involving sharp materials, blades, or significant puncture risk.

• Storing near heat or ozone: PVC degrades when exposed to heat sources, direct sunlight, and ozone-generating equipment. Store in a cool, dark, dry location.

• Using near moving machinery: The gauntlet construction creates an entanglement risk near rotating parts and moving plant. Do not use where entanglement with machinery is possible.

Safety

These gauntlets are certified to EN388:2016+A1:2018 (4121X) and EN ISO 21420:2020 Dexterity Level 5, CE marked. The EN388 rating confirms Level 4 abrasion resistance and provides low cut and puncture protection. These gauntlets are not suitable for strong chemical handling — no EN374 rating is held. They are not suitable for tasks involving significant cut or puncture hazard. They are not suitable for heat, flame, or electrical hazard work. Avoid use near moving machinery where entanglement is a risk. A task-specific risk assessment under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 should confirm suitability before use.

Maintenance

Wipe the outer PVC surface with a damp cloth after each use to remove contamination, oil, and particulate matter. Do not machine wash or use solvent-based cleaners. Air dry fully at room temperature before storing. Store in a cool, dry location between 10°C and 30°C, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and ozone-generating equipment. Inspect the full PVC coating before every use. Replace when cracking, pinholing, or any breach in the coating is visible. Use within three years of purchase date when stored as recommended.