Work Glove Safety
The Problem
Hand injuries are some of the most common injuries on Canadian worksites—and many are preventable. However, using the wrong gloves, or gloves that are worn or damaged, can be just as risky as not wearing any protection at all. Tasks involving hazardous substances, sharp materials, or heavy loads pose a serious risk to your hands. Today, we’ll cover how to select, inspect, and use the right gloves to keep your hands protected on the job.
Identify the Hazards
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
1. Select the Right Gloves
Match your gloves to the specific task:
- Leather gloves: Ideal for general handling and protection against abrasion
- Chemical-resistant gloves: Required when working with solvents, acids, or other hazardous liquids
- Cut-resistant gloves: Needed for tasks involving sharp tools, metal edges, or glass
- Impact-resistant gloves: Used where there’s a risk of crush injuries or repetitive impact
Ensure gloves are the correct size and fit comfortably to maintain grip and dexterity.
2. Inspect Gloves Before Use
- Check for holes, tears, or worn areas
- Inspect seams for separation or embedded debris
- For chemical-resistant gloves: look for soft spots, cracks, or discolouration
- Ensure the glove remains flexible and offers a reliable grip
3. Proper Usage and Care
- Keep gloves clean and dry during use
- Remove contaminated gloves safely to avoid skin contact
- Store gloves in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and chemicals
- Do not reuse disposable gloves
- Replace gloves immediately if they become damaged or compromised
4. Maintain Dexterity
- Use gloves that provide both protection and flexibility
- Choose snug-fitting gloves—not too tight or too loose
- Select gloves suited to both the type and duration of the task
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A worker on a residential construction site used standard fabric gloves while applying a chemical-based sealant. The gloves were not rated for chemical protection, and the sealant seeped through, resulting in a chemical burn. This injury could have been prevented by selecting the correct glove type and conducting a proper pre-use inspection. Wearing the wrong glove can be just as dangerous as wearing no glove at all.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect your gloves before each use and replace them immediately if damaged
- Select the correct gloves for the task—ask your supervisor if you're unsure
- Keep gloves clean, dry, and stored properly in a safe location
- Never share or modify gloves, as this can compromise their protection
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide gloves that match the specific hazards associated with each task
- Ensure gloves are available in a range of sizes to properly fit all workers
- Deliver training on glove selection, inspection, and proper use
- Maintain a glove replacement program to ensure damaged or worn gloves are replaced promptly
Discussion & Questions
- What tasks do you perform that require specific types of gloves?
- Have you ever come across damaged or worn-out gloves on-site?
- Is there a task where you're unsure which gloves to use?
- Are the right gloves easy to access when you need them?
Encourage open discussion and feedback on glove use and selection practices
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to inspecting our gloves before each use and using the correct gloves for every task. If you're unsure, stop and ask. Your hands are one of your most valuable tools—protect them properly.
Wrap-Up
Gloves are only effective when they are selected and used correctly. A simple glove inspection can prevent serious injuries. By committing to proper glove use, we can reduce hand injuries and help create safer, more productive worksites. Thank you for taking glove safety seriously.
Standards Overview
Under Canadian occupational health and safety regulations, employers are required to identify workplace hazards and provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)—including gloves—where there is a risk of hand injury.
- PPE must be fit for purpose and maintained in good condition
- Workers must receive information, training, and instruction on the correct use of PPE
- Employers must ensure PPE is readily accessible to all workers
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
Participants are strongly encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals regarding specific workplace concerns or questions. Always adhere to your organisation’s policies and procedures for health and safety and hazard management.
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