We use our hands for everything, so why not protect them when they need it most?  According to an article entitled, “Better Grip Means Better Hand Protection” by Dave Shutt, the author states how a new advancement in protective work gloves helps ensure a worker’s safety when working with slippery or oily parts.  These gloves are the “first step” in the prevention of “hand injuries and product damage.”

Traditionally, workers would wear cotton or leather gloves, which could not only be loose-fitting, but more susceptible to wear and tear.  “These new glove types feature specialized coatings – coatings that absorb oil to ensure grip.  Sponge nitrile is one of the most exciting of these new coatings.”  The author states that sponge nitrile provides a maximum oil absorbency that fastens to the glove’s exterior and remains strong even after several washings.

The new sponge nitrile glove is also being proven to increase productivity.  The time and cost saving benefits from these new glove advancements include the following:

• By replacing cotton and leather products, employees can reduce downtime from needing to change their gloves several times a day
• Productivity will be increased approximately 5 to 10 percent, based on U.S. based manufactures evaluations
• A decrease in waste caused by less superior, disposable gloves
• Cost savings due to a decrease in documented and non-documented workplace injuries

In order for these gloves to work to their potential, they need to be washed for up to 15 minutes after use and should not be taken off while the employee is working in slippery or oily conditions.  Comfort is a key factor for many workers, so they should be sure to pick the appropriate sized gloves to avoid discomfort at all times.

I believe that another safety practice to ensure worker’s protection is by protecting their environment from becoming excessively slippery.  Slip-resistant handrails could also help protect employees by providing additional gripping traction.  Just like replacing original methods for hand protection (i.e. standard cotton work gloves) with sponge nitrile gloves, slip-resistant handrails would be a safer alternative than utilizing traditional metal railings that are often more susceptible to oils and grease.

Shutt, David, “Better Grip Means Better Hand Protection.” EHS Today. July 2009

Filed under: Workplace Safety by Beth Faraci