Hand Protection with Safety Gloves

Hand protection is a critical aspect of personal protective equipment (PPE) in various work environments. When discussing PPE for hand protection, the focus inevitably falls on safety gloves. In this article, we will explore the significance of hand protection and safety gloves, emphasizing the key factors to consider while selecting appropriate gloves to ensure the safety of workers.

The Importance of Safety Gloves

When it comes to preventing hand injuries, the use of gloves is paramount. Regardless of the industry or work setting, gloves are a non-negotiable requirement when hands are at risk. Statistics show that a significant percentage of arm and hand injuries, approximately 70.9 percent, could have been prevented by employing PPE, particularly safety gloves .

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations mandate the use of proper PPE for all workers. By selecting the right gloves, employers can ensure that their employees' hands remain protected from potential hazards.

Workplaces Requiring Hand Protection

Numerous workplaces expose employees' hands to various hazards, making hand protection essential. Safety gloves serve as a safeguard against common risks such as lacerations, punctures, corrosive chemicals, vibrations, biohazards, abrasions, impacts, and thermal burns caused by chemicals or extreme temperatures.

Choosing the Right Types of Safety Gloves

While specific glove features depend on the nature of the risks involved, one universal requirement for effective safety gloves is proper fit and mobility. Therefore, it is crucial to consider gloves that enable comfortable hand movements while adequately performing the task at hand.

Several factors come into play when selecting suitable safety gloves. Firstly, evaluate whether your workers require hand and arm protection PPE. In such cases, longer gloves covering the forearms or even extending up the arms may be necessary. Additionally, assess the level of grip needed by workers. Some gloves offer enhanced palm materials or specialized coatings designed for optimal grip, especially in environments with oils or other slippery substances. Evaluating these aspects contributes to the overall safety of your workforce.

Furthermore, it is vital to identify the specific hazards your workers' hands are exposed to. This determination guides the selection of appropriate safety gloves. The following are three major glove categories commonly used in workplaces, noting that certain gloves may address multiple needs:

1. Everyday Work Gloves:

Work environments such as construction sites, warehouses, and industrial workplaces pose multiple hand hazards. For these settings, prioritize gloves that offer maximum dexterity, a secure grip, and durability since they will likely be worn extensively. Consider gloves with vibration suppression capabilities if workers operate machinery that generates repeated small impacts. Additionally, assess whether waterproof or water-resistant gloves are necessary based on the work environment's conditions.

2. Cut-Resistant Gloves:

Tasks involving cutting tools necessitate the use of gloves with cut resistance. It is crucial to understand the different standards and levels of cut resistance to identify the appropriate anti-cutting gloves required for such tasks. Starting with safe and reliable safety knives and tools is also advisable.

3. Gloves for Chemical Resistance:

In situations where workers handle hazardous chemicals, it is imperative to provide gloves that offer protection against specific chemicals they may encounter. Avoid using gloves with holes or excessive wear, as chemicals entering through these openings can be more harmful than not wearing gloves at all.

Hand protection through the use of safety gloves is an indispensable aspect of ensuring the safety and well-being of workers. By considering factors such as fit, mobility, workplace hazards, and specific glove requirements, employers can select the most suitable safety gloves that offer effective hand protection. Remember, prioritizing hand protection is not just a legal obligation but a proactive measure that promotes a safe and secure work environment.