Why should gloves be used when handling sheet metal materials?

• A. To protect hands from cuts and to protect the sheet metal from corrosive oils on the skin.
• B. To improve grip only; protection not relevant.
• C. To keep hands warm.
• D. To hinder handling.

Answer: (A)

Gloves are worn to protect hands from cuts and burrs, which are common on sheet metal edges. A barrier keeps the skin safe from sharp points as you handle, lift, or form the metal. At the same time, gloves prevent oils, dirt, and sweat from your skin from transferring to the metal, helping prevent staining, corrosion, or finish problems. While gloves can improve grip, that isn’t the main purpose; warmth or hindering handling aren’t the goals either. So the best reason to wear them is to shield your hands from cuts and to keep the metal surface free from skin oils.