Which type of gloves are considered minimal protective equipment?

Basic gloves are considered minimal protective equipment because they provide a fundamental level of protection for handling hazardous materials without the enhancements found in other types of gloves. These gloves are designed to offer a barrier against minimal exposure risks, which may include low-level chemicals or non-hazardous debris.

In comparison, heavy-duty gloves are intended for more strenuous tasks or for protection against more hazardous substances and environments, thus offering greater durability and protection. Rubber gloves are primarily used for specific tasks involving liquids, particularly in chemical handling, but may not be suitable for all types of hazardous materials. Heat-resistant gloves are specialized for handling hot materials, providing insulation against high temperatures, rather than chemical or biological hazards. Therefore, basic gloves serve as the simplest and most minimal form of personal protective equipment suitable for various light tasks, while the other glove types offer enhanced capabilities for more defined hazards.