How to choose a right hand protection gloves?

How to choose a right hand protection gloves?

 When working, we depend on our hands and fingers more than any other body parts. Most of workers perform involve hands and fingers to some degree. In this case, injuries to hands and fingers are among the most preventable types.

One of the most familiar ways to protect hands and fingers is the use of gloves. However, simply telling a worker or butcher to wear gloves is an inadequate approach. There are many types of gloves, each with specific properties, so it’s necessary to match the type of glove to the task to be performed. Choosing the wrong types of glove could actually increase the potential for injury.

If workers take gloves, why do so many injuries occur? In some cases, it’s because the worker is using the wrong type of glove for the hazard, or a glove that can’t perform its function properly because of damage. One more, it may be that workers believe the glove to be uncomfortable or interfering with the work. That’s why supervisors need to ensure that workers have access to gloves that are comfortable, functional, and provide the proper protection.

What glove is right one for you?

The main part of every safety program is assessing the potential hazards associated with the worksite and the specific task that will be performed.

Heat and cold. For hot work or tasks involving either very cold materials or in cold environments, insulated gloves generally offer the best choice. If the worker will be close to a radiant heat source, an insulated glove made from reflective materials may be needed.

Chemicals. There are many types of gloves that may be suitable for working with chemicals. However, no single type is best for every type of chemical. It’s critical to understand the specific hazards associated with the chemicals and form of those chemicals the workers may encounter. Depending upon the nature of the chemical and the type of potential exposure (whether constant or incidental),stainless steel mesh,rubber, vinyl, neoprene, or other gloves may be the best choice.

Dangerous surfaces. When workers have to handle sharp objects or surfaces that are jagged or rough, cut-resistant gloves made from stainless steel mesh will offer the greatest protection against cuts and punctures. In situations involving particularly sharp materials or cutting tools, workers may best be protected by gloves made from materials such as Kevlar® (which is also used in bulletproof vests).

Electricity. If the work may exposure the worker to electrical hazards such as shock, the best choice will likely be gloves made from insulating rubber materials.

Fire-retardant. If a worker may come in contact with open flame, this type of glove will provide the best protection.

Delicate materials. Sometimes, the purpose of the glove isn’t to protect the workers from the material, but to protect the material from the worker. An example of this is a workpiece that may be affected by oils in the skin. In these situations, gloves made from a soft material such as cotton may be optimal.