What is the standard lead-equivalent thickness for protective gloves used in radiology?

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

Answer: (B)

Protective gloves are kept very thin to shield the hands from scattered X-ray exposure while still allowing good feel and dexterity during procedures. The standard thickness used for gloves is 0.25 mm lead equivalent, with some gloves offered at 0.5 mm for higher protection when needed. This pairing provides a practical balance: enough attenuation of scatter radiation without making the gloves too bulky or stiff to manipulate instruments accurately. Thicker options like 1.0–1.5 mm or 2.0–3.5 mm would significantly reduce tactile sensation and hindrance during procedures, so they aren’t used as the standard for protective gloves.