We use our hands for almost every task we do at work, which is why they tend to be the most susceptible area on the body for injury. In 2023, hand injuries accounted for 32% of all injuries in the workplace. In fact, the USA’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has estimated that 71% of hand injuries could have been prevented if the worker was wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), specifically safety gloves.
When to Wear Work Gloves
Using Sharp Objects
When handling sharp tools or objects, it is crucial that you wear work gloves to protect your fingers, thumbs, wrists, and palms from punctures, lacerations and cuts. Featuring a TRP Exo-Skeleton and highly protective cut resistant lining, our Impact Pro Cut Glove is specially designed for added security against cut hazards when using sharp objects.
Handling Chemicals
If you work with potentially harmful chemicals and contaminants, safety gloves can protect your hands from injury caused by accidental exposure. Our Anti Impact Cut Resistant Thermal Gloves feature a nitrile micro foam palm which not only gives the wearer superior grip, but also prevents penetration from liquids or other harmful substances that could lead to burn injuries and irritation on the hand.
Wet Work
Prolonged or frequent contact with water can also be damaging to the skin on the hands. Wearing waterproof gloves helps to protect the hands and also gives you better grip while working in wet environments, preventing your hands from slipping while handling machinery (which could lead to more serious injuries).
Extreme Temperatures
Exposing your hands to extreme temperatures, either when working outside or with particularly hot or cold surfaces, can lead to issues like heat stress and frostbite. Wearing the correct gloves for the job should protect your hands from these kind of injuries.
Prolonged Heavy Work
Some work gloves are specially designed to help reduce hand fatigue during prolonged periods of heavy work. Look for gloves with wrist strap fastenings as this will help you achieve a secure fit, minimising hand fatigue and sprains caused by repetitive strain and wearing ill-fitting hand protection.
Exposure to Vibrations
Having the hands exposed to vibrations for long period of time can lead to serious nerve and tendon damage. This is why specialist ‘anti-vibration’ gloves should be worn in order to isolate the wearer’s hands from the effects of vibrations.
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When it comes to personal safety, gloves are easy to overlook. But your hands are the most valuable tool you have, so don’t put them in danger! Shop our range of work safety gloves at Safety Harness Direct by clicking the button below.
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