What is the normal lead-equivalent thickness for protective gloves?

• A. .25 and .5 mm lead equivalency
• B. 1.0 and 1.5 mm lead equivalency
• C. 2.0 and 2.5 mm lead equivalency
• D. 3.0 and 3.5 mm lead equivalency

Answer: (A)

Protective gloves are designed to shield the hands from scattered radiation while letting you maintain hand dexterity. The lead-equivalent thickness used for these gloves is typically 0.25 mm, with a common alternative of 0.5 mm for higher exposure situations. This range provides meaningful attenuation without making the gloves too bulky or hindering precise manipulation. Thicker gloves would be hard to move in and could reduce tactile sensation, potentially increasing procedural time or causing slips. In contrast, this normal range balances protection with practicality, since gloves are a secondary protective measure alongside distance and other shielding.