Workplace injuries can happen anytime if proper safety protocols are not followed. One of the most common types of injuries occur to the hands due to cuts, abrasions, burns and other impacts. To protect workers’ hands from such hazards, industrial hand protection gloves have become an essential part of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Types of Industrial Gloves
There are several different types of gloves designed for specific industrial hazards and tasks. Proper glove selection depends on the risks present and activities being performed. Some common glove types include:
– Cut-resistant gloves: Made of materials like Kevlar or steel mesh, these gloves are very durable and can provide protection from sharp objects, blades, glass shards, and other cutting edges. They find applications in industries like automotive repair, manufacturing, construction, and more.
– Chemical-resistant gloves: Various polymers and rubber-based materials are used to manufacture gloves that can withstand exposure to solvents, acids, bases, oils and other chemicals. Selection depends on the specific chemicals involved. They are essential for industries like oil & gas, chemical production, electronics manufacturing etc.
– Thermal resistant gloves: Heat-resistant gloves use materials like leather, synthetic leather, Nomex and Kevlar to protect hands from hot surfaces, sparks and brief contact with flames. Welding and metal working industries commonly require such gloves.
– Insulating gloves: Made with thick rubber or plastic shells, insulating gloves provide resistance to electrical hazards. Their construction prevents electric currents from passing through. Utility workers and technicians regularly use them.
Importance of Proper Glove Selection
Choosing the right Industrial Hand Protection Gloves type is important to provide appropriate protection. Some key factors to consider include:
– Type of hazard – Cut, abrasion, chemical, heat, electricity etc. Glove material should effectively guard against the specific risk.
– Activity level – Dexterity and mobility requirements vary by task. Tight-fitting gloves may be preferred for handling small parts while loose gloves work better for heavy lifting.
– Durability – Frequent immersion in liquids or potential for tears/punctures requires more rugged models vs. occasional light-duty use.
– Sizing – Proper fit prevents hazards from bypassing coverage and impacting bare skin. Both sizing and right- or left-handedness matter.
– Life span – All materials degrade over time. Check manufacturer lifespan guidelines and inspect for wear/damage regularly.
– Compliance – OSHA or industry certifications show gloves meet safety standards for the hazard.
Buyers must never compromise on protection by choosing cost over proper PPE. Injured hands can drastically impact quality of life and career, so selecting the ideal glove type is integral to risk mitigation.
Proper Usage and Care Extends Glove Life
Maximizing a glove’s lifespan lowers long-term costs and shields workers more consistently:
– Inspect for defects or wear before each use and replace damaged or worn pairs immediately.
– Clean gently per manufacturer instructions to remove accumulated chemicals, soils or abrasive debris which accelerate breakdown.
– Allow natural air drying between washes to prevent moisture-related damage or growth of bacteria.
– Store appropriately, away from direct heat/sunlight which can cause embrittlement over time.
– Receive periodic training to prevent improper usages like using the wrong glove type for a job.
– Be conscious of contact with oils, chemicals or conditions they are not rated to withstand.
– Report any safety issues with existing gloves to managers promptly for reevaluation of PPE needs.
Consistent compliance with usage, care and replacement procedures helps glove materials perform as intended over many exposures to workplace dangers. This ongoing maintenance safeguards hands as effectively as the initial purchase.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it