By Glove Safe
Hand protection is crucial in the workplace because our hands are vital for various tasks and prone to many hazards, including cuts, burns, chemicals, and strain injuries. Recognizing the importance of hand safety goes beyond following rules—it's about protecting people's health, well-being, and livelihoods. Achieving effective hand protection requires finding gloves that balance comfort and safety. In recent years, both OSHA and suppliers of personal protective equipment have urged manufacturers to prioritize advanced technologies that enhance comfort while maintaining safety standards.
Before the 1970s, safety gloves predominantly relied on a limited range of natural materials like cotton and leather or steel chain(for heightened cut hazards). However, the landscape shifted in the early 1970s with the commercial introduction of Kevlar® fiber, marking the usage of synthetic materials in glove manufacturing. Another significant leap occurred in the 1990s with high-performance polyethylene (HPPE) fibers emerging in cut-resistant materials. HPPEs offer comparable cut protection at about half the weight and enhanced comfort due to their cooling properties.
While glove material and design are constantly improving to enhance protection and comfort, most cut-resistant gloves still leverage para-aramid or HPPE fibers today. Recent strides in glove performance have been on the rise, primarily propelled by yarn engineering rather than the introduction of entirely new materials. Engineered yarns have grown significantly, combining technical and comfort fibers in lighter-weight materials. For instance, an engineered yarn might comprise an eyelash-thin steel filament encased within a more skin-friendly thread, enabling the creation of gloves with highly desirable characteristics unattainable through a single material.
With many glove options available, selecting the correct type of glove for the task can be daunting. This guide aims to simplify the process by outlining key considerations to help you choose the perfect work gloves for your job site needs.
Assess the Hazards
Before selecting work gloves, it's crucial to assess the specific hazards present on your job site. Are you dealing with sharp objects, chemicals, extreme temperatures, or electrical currents? Understanding the potential risks will guide you in choosing gloves with appropriate protective properties.
Identify Required Features
Once you've identified the hazards, consider the features necessary to mitigate them effectively. Some features to look for in work gloves include:
Cut Resistance: If your job involves handling sharp materials or tools, opt for gloves with high cut resistance, typically made from materials such as Kevlar or stainless steel mesh.
Chemical Resistance: For tasks involving exposure to chemicals, select gloves made from materials such as nitrile, neoprene, or PVC, which offer resistance to various chemicals.
Thermal Protection: When working in extreme temperatures, insulated gloves or those made from materials like leather or thermal-lined fabrics can provide adequate protection.
Grip and Dexterity: For jobs requiring precision and dexterity, choose gloves with textured palms or fingers for enhanced grip while ensuring they don't compromise flexibility.
Waterproofing: Gloves made from latex or PVC can help keep hands dry and comfortable when working in wet or damp conditions.
Abrasion Resistance: For tasks involving rough surfaces or abrasive materials, gloves with reinforced palms and durable materials like leather or synthetic blends are good choices.
Electrical Insulation: For electrical work, select gloves specifically designed to provide insulation against electrical currents - typically made from rubber or other non-conductive materials.
Consider Comfort and Fit
Comfort is paramount in work gloves, as uncomfortable gloves can hinder productivity and increase the likelihood of accidents. Ensure the gloves fit properly, allowing for ease of movement and flexibility without being too tight or loose. Look for gloves with adjustable closures or elastic wrists for a secure fit.
Evaluate Durability and Longevity
The durability of work gloves is essential for prolonged use and cost-effectiveness. Consider the materials used in construction and assess their resistance to wear and tear. Reinforced stitching, double-layered palms, and abrasion-resistant coatings are indicators of a glove's durability.
Selecting the correct work gloves for the job site involves careful consideration of the hazards present, required features, comfort, fit, durability, and performance. By following these guidelines and consulting with safety professionals or suppliers, you can ensure that your hands are adequately protected while maintaining comfort and dexterity, ultimately promoting a safer and more productive work environment. Remember, investing in quality gloves is an investment in your safety on the job.
Glove Safe Inc. prioritizes delivering high-quality, meticulously crafted personal protective products that customers can rely on to minimize exposure to workplace hazards. Glove Safe's product development strategy centers on addressing practical solutions that enhance worker protection. With a commitment to quality and exceptional customer service, Glove Safe is proud to be a trusted partner of Abatix. At Glove Safe, Inc., Safety Comes First.
You can always rely on the ABATIX team of knowledgeable reps to help you make the most informed glove selection decisions. Contact your local ABATIX rep today.
