I often watch various programs like “Border Security”, “Cops”, etc. I frequently see police and border patrol on those programs using black gloves that look like typical exam gloves except that they are black. As well, when I volunteer at a nearby hospital the peace officers that wander around there sometimes have similar black gloves crammed in their back pockets (security and police might also carry them; I haven’t been paying close attention).
Are those just “normal” latex or nitrile gloves like medical staff often wear except that they are black, or is there something special about them?
The whole reason I logged in and posted to this thread was to say:
"…“and they’re just otherwise normal nitrile gloves.”…
but forgot to put that in my reply.
The store I work at sells beige latex gloves, blue nitrile, purple vinyl, and the dark brown/black gloves, too (I think they’re also latex? Haven’t looked lately). The colors do help distinguish the different types.
Some black gloves (Black Talon brand) are slightly thicker than your standard issue blue or purple nitrile gloves, making them slightly less likely to rip. Not great for medical care, but I can see the appeal if you’re doing searches etc.
The EMTs that I know wear blue and purple (don’t remember which, might be both) nitrile gloves. I, to be honest, figured it was just because it was ‘cooler’ than plain vinyl or latex gloves, but I suppose what they’re doing is less delicate than work in a doctors office or hospital. When you’re pulling someone out of a car wreck or dealing with an ODing addict you’re probably more likely to end up with a ripped glove than in a more controlled situation so a more heavy duty glove seems to be in order. As for why they don’t use white. I’m not sure. My guess is that it’s a combination of A)a rip will be more obvious and B)the manufacturers made colored gloves and they sold, probably (at least partially) because they’re cooler looking. When you’re in full firefighter or EMT gear, there’s not a whole lot of personal expression. Tattoos and mustaches, that’s about it. Purple gloves, well, one does want a hint of color.