Protecting Your Hands on the Job: An Essential Guide to Industrial Hand Protection Gloves
Types of Industrial Gloves
There are several different types of industrial gloves that can protect workers' hands depending on the hazards they may face on the job. Some common types include:
- Chemical Resistant Gloves: Made from various rubbers, neoprene, or plastics, chemical resistant gloves protect hands from solvents, acids, alkalis, and other hazardous chemicals. The material and thickness will depend on the specific chemicals being handled.
- Cut Resistant Gloves: Cut-resistant gloves, sometimes called cut-proof gloves, are made with materials like aramid fiber, Kevlar, stainless steel, or leather to resist cuts, scratches, and punctures from sharp or abrasive surfaces and tools. Common in industries like automotive repair, metalworking, glassworking, and construction.
- Thermal Resistant Gloves: For protecting hands from extreme heat or cold, thermal resistant gloves are made with insulating materials like leather, rubber, fiberglass, and ceramics. They are commonly used in industries like firefighting, foundries, food processing, and welding.
- Insulating Gloves: Designed to protect hands from electrical hazards, insulating gloves are typically made with molded rubber or plastic and provide insulation for voltages up to 1,000 volts or more depending on the class. Common for linemen and others working with live electrical equipment.
- Dexterity Gloves: For jobs requiring fine motor skills and tactile sensitivity, dexterity gloves are lightweight and made with breathable fabrics like cotton, nylon, or latex to maximize flexibility and sensitivity while still offering basic protection. Common in applications like assembly, electronics, food handling, and medical.
Selection Factors for Industrial Hand Protection Gloves
When selecting Industrial Hand Protection Gloves several important factors must be considered to ensure the appropriate type and class is chosen for the specific hazards:
- Hazard Type: Chemicals, heat/flames, sharp edges, electricity, etc. The glove material must be compatible with the hazard(s) and rated for adequate protection.
- Material: Various plastics, rubbers, kevlar, ceramics are common with different chemical and heat resistance properties to match hazards. Cut and abrasion resistance are also material-dependent.
- Thickness: Heavier and thicker materials provide greater protection from chemicals/heat but reduce dexterity. Lighter materials enhance feel but less protection. Balance is needed.
- Size: Proper fit is critical for protection and comfort with minimal looseness or tightness. Many sizes are available for different hand sizes.
- Care & Use: All gloves have limitations on use-life span, cleaning methods, and whether they can be reused. Understanding manufacturer specs ensures safety.
- Certification: Look for gloves certified to appropriate standards like ANSI, CSA, and EN 388/407 cut-resistant ratings to ensure the specified level of protection.
Proper Fitting, Inspection and Replacement
Even with the right glove for the job, other safety practices must still be followed:
- Inspect gloves prior to use for any cracks, pinholes, or other defects that compromise protection.
- Check for fit - gloves should be tight but not constricting with maximum flexibility for the tasks.
- Replace damaged or worn gloves immediately per manufacturer recommendations. Continued use provides false security.
- Wash reusable gloves as needed following manufacturer cleaning instructions to maintain protection integrity.
- Consider getting different sized or alternate gloves for different tasks that require varying levels of dexterity versus protection.
- Train workers on proper glove selection, use, care, and limitations. Understanding builds better safety habits long-term.
Workplace Hand Injuries - The High Cost of Non-Compliance
The costs of industrial hand injuries extend far beyond just medical expenses or workers' compensation claims. Downtime, lost productivity, potential OSHA fines, and damaged company reputation all take a significant financial and operational toll on businesses. Some startling industry statistics include:
- Over 335,000 workers suffer hand injuries each year requiring time off work for recovery according to the BLS.
- Lacerations account for over 50% of all injuries with the dominant hand 3 times more likely to be injured according to the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.
- OSHA fines for PPE non-compliance including improper glove use average over $5,000 per violation with higher penalties for repeat offenses.
- The average workers' compensation claim for a serious hand injury exceeds $30,000 according to the National Council on Compensation Insurance.
- Only 55% of injured workers return to their original job after a severe hand trauma according to a study published in the Journal of Hand Therapy. vocational retraining is often required.
Clearly, the up-front costs of providing appropriate industrial hand protection gloves and ensuring proper training, inspection, and compliance pays off many times over in avoiding severe or lost-time incidents. A comprehensive hand safety program focused on effective glove selection and use prevents injuries while saving significant expenses down the road.
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About Author:
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)
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