Our Guide To Selecting The Best Safety Gloves

Selecting the best safety gloves is a key step in ensuring the protection and productivity of workers across various industries. The appropriate gloves will safeguard against specific hazards, providing necessary protection without compromising dexterity and comfort.

Read on for expert advice on how to choose the ideal safety gloves for any work environment and risk, so that safety and performance are always optimised in equal measure.

First things first – what is the industry or working environment in question?

Choosing safety gloves begins with understanding the specific industry or working environment in which they will be used. Different sectors present unique hazards, meaning that tailored protective solutions will be required. For example:

• In the construction industry, workers face risks such as cuts, abrasions, punctures, impact injuries and chemical exposure, so gloves should be robust and multi-functional to address these varied threats

• In healthcare settings, exposure to biological hazards like bloodborne pathogens, chemicals and sharp instruments is common. Gloves must therefore provide strong barrier protection without compromising tactile sensitivity

• Within the manufacturing industry, where risks include machinery-related injuries, sharp objects, chemicals and extreme heat, gloves need to combine cut resistance with chemical and thermal protection

• In the food processing sector, the primary threats are cuts, abrasions and exposure to food-related contaminants, so gloves should be food-safe, cut-resistant and easy to clean

• In the oil and gas industry, workers face chemical exposure, mechanical hazards and extreme temperatures. In these environments, gloves must be highly durable, resistant to chemicals and provide thermal protection

• Where electrical work is involved, the risks include electric shock and arc flash. Insulated gloves that meet electrical safety standards are crucial in these instances

Ensuring compliance with relevant industry requirements and standards

Once industry risks have been identified, it’s important to study the relevant requirements and standards of the sector to ensure the gloves selected are approved for use.

These include standards such as EN374-2 Level 2 or 3, which should be worn when there is a risk of exposure to potentially infectious material. Another important standard is EN407:2004, which protects against thermal risks caused by extreme heat and fire.

Compliance with these safety standards, among others, ensures that gloves provide adequate protection against identified hazards. Additionally, understanding these standards helps in selecting gloves that meet safety requirements and provide optimal protection.

Identify the type of hazard involved

Safety glove requirements are heavily dependent on the type of hazards present in the work environment. Common threats include:

Chemical hazards

These require gloves made from materials resistant to specific chemicals. Nitrile, latex and neoprene are common materials used for chemical resistance.

Mechanical hazards

These necessitate gloves that offer cut, puncture and abrasion resistance. Materials like Kevlar and HPPE are often used.

Thermal hazards

Thermal hazards require gloves that provide insulation against heat and cold. Materials such as aluminised fabrics and wool blends are effective.

Biological hazards

To protect against biological hazards, gloves that prevent contamination and protect against pathogens should be selected. Medical-grade nitrile or latex gloves are typically used.

Other factors to consider when choosing the best safety gloves

Aside from vital considerations such as industry risks and safety compliance, other factors should be kept in mind when choosing the best safety gloves to ensure they provide the best protection and functionality. These include:

Material

The choice of material affects the glove’s resistance to various hazards, comfort and durability. Common materials include nitrile, latex, neoprene and various high-performance textiles.

Fit and comfort

Gloves must fit well to protect without hindering movement. This is a consideration that is currently being examined closely, with many manufacturers now offering PPE specifically designed for women to ensure the correct fit. Poorly fitting gloves can cause discomfort, reduce dexterity and lead to accidents.

Durability

Durability ensures that gloves can withstand the rigours of the job and provide long-term protection. This reduces the frequency of replacements and ensures consistent safety.

Grip

Adequate grip is essential, especially in wet or oily conditions. Textured surfaces or coatings on gloves can enhance grip, improving safety and performance.

Flexibility and dexterity

Workers need to perform tasks efficiently, and gloves should allow for adequate hand movement and tactile sensitivity. Flexible materials and ergonomic designs can enhance dexterity.

Cost

While cost is an important consideration, it should not compromise safety. Investing in higher-quality gloves can save money in the long run by reducing injury rates and increasing glove lifespan.

Consult the experts for help choosing the best safety gloves for the task at hand

Choosing the best safety gloves is a complex task that is made significantly easier with the help of expert advice. Consulting with knowledgeable, reputable providers ensures that the gloves selected meet specific industry needs and regulatory standards.

Select the best safety gloves with the help of Ark Safety

Ark Safety stands out as a trusted Irish provider of high-quality PPE. We understand the importance of team managers regularly assessing and upgrading their workers’ safety gloves to ensure ongoing protection. What’s more, we are expertly positioned to advise on what type of gloves to choose based on industry and safety requirements.

To avail of our professional guidance and to view our comprehensive range of safety gloves, contact us today. With our extensive industry knowledge and commitment to safety, you’ll find that we are the ideal partner in selecting the best safety gloves for your unique needs.