What do gloves primarily protect your hands from?

The primary function of gloves is to protect your hands from burns, cuts, and harmful chemicals. When working with hazardous materials or in environments where sharp objects are present, gloves serve as a barrier, preventing direct contact with these dangers. They can be made from various materials designed to withstand exposure to chemicals, which is crucial for safety in many industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and laboratories. Gloves are especially important when handling corrosive substances that can damage skin or cause serious injuries.

While gloves can provide some level of protection against electrical shocks, extreme temperatures, and physical impacts, these are not their primary purpose. Each of those conditions may require specialized types of gloves designed specifically for those risks, but in general contexts, the main protection offered by gloves is against burns, cuts, and harmful chemicals.