Your hands are one of the most valuable tools you have, both on the job and in everyday life, so it only makes sense to keep them as safe as possible when exposed to hazardous conditions. In many work environments, wearing the appropriate work gloves is required to protect hands from such injuries as cuts, scratches, burns, abrasions and more. By wearing the proper protection, workers not only reduce the risk of serious injury, but they can also focus more directly on the task at hand and improve overall work performance. Read on to learn more about work gloves and how to choose them, including types of work gloves, features and options.
Improving Safety and Performance:
Certain work conditions expose workers’ hands to extreme hazards, which can lead to serious injury if the proper hand protection is not utilized. Sources of extreme heat or cold, for example, can affect the efficiency and accuracy with which you work, as well as cause burns or frost bite. The right gloves should be designed specifically for your line of work, providing maximum protection against the risks and challenges you face on a daily basis. Comfort is also crucial to improving safety and performance on the job. If work gloves are too uncomfortable to wear, many workers simply will not wear them. Effective work gloves are often made with breathable fabrics, allow for dexterity when working with tools and equipment, and fit securely and comfortably.
Types of Work Gloves:
With innovations in glove materials and technology, work gloves can be designed to protect against specific hazards and conditions. Chemical resistant gloves, for example, protect against chemical exposure and burns caused by liquids, powders, vapors or even gases. Materials for chemical resistant gloves include latex, nitrile, polyvinylchloride, and other polymers. A combination of different materials can also be used for high chemical resistance. Work gloves can also be designed to protect against cuts, punctures and abrasions, made with strong synthetics such as leather, canvas or cotton blends that offer high levels of dexterity and tactile sensitivity.
Features and Options:
With each type of work glove comes features and options that help improve safety and performance. Available options that can be customized for maximum protection include gauge (the material’s thickness), lining (gloves can be flock-lined, knit-lined or jersey lined), cuffs (straight or gauntlet), length (longer gloves offer more protection), and grip (rough or smooth). By assessing the hazards in your workplace and determining exactly what you need to stay safe and get the job done, you can find the right work gloves that last.
Mike Strama writes for Magid Glove Safety, a leading manufacturer and distributor of quality work gloves, ear plugs, and other industrial safety equipment. Magid provides workers with the safety equipment they need to stay protected.