What is the primary purpose of wearing lead gloves in radiation environments?

Wearing lead gloves in radiation environments primarily serves to protect against ionizing radiation. Lead is a dense material with a high atomic number, making it effective at absorbing and attenuating radiation. When personnel handle radioactive materials or work in areas with high radiation levels, lead gloves provide a barrier that significantly reduces the exposure of the hands to harmful radiation, thus minimizing the risk of injury and long-term health effects associated with radiation exposure.

While enhancing grip and control, providing insulation from heat, and improving dexterity in handling equipment are valuable traits in gloves used for various tasks, these factors are not the primary purpose of lead gloves in the context of radiation protection. The design and use of lead gloves specifically focus on shielding against radiation, underlining the importance of safety in environments where exposure risk is a concern.