Proper Hand Protection and Glove Selection
The Problem
Your hands are one of your most valuable tools on the job, but they are also one of the most vulnerable to injury. Cuts, burns, punctures, and chemical exposure are common hazards, yet many injuries can be prevented by selecting and using the right gloves. Today, we’ll discuss how to protect your hands effectively, the importance of proper glove selection, and what to do when gloves wear out or fail.
Identify the Hazards
- Sharp Objects: Cuts, punctures, and abrasions.
- Heat or Cold: Burns or frostbite from extreme temperatures.
- Chemicals: Skin irritation, burns, or chemical absorption.
- Impact: Blows or crushing injuries from tools or materials.
Failing to use proper gloves for these hazards can lead to injuries that result in lost work time, discomfort, and long-term damage.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
1. Select the Right Gloves for the Job:
Different types of gloves are designed to protect against specific hazards:
- Metal Mesh, Leather, or Canvas Gloves: Protect against cuts, burns, and abrasion.
- Leather Gloves: Protect from sparks, moderate heat, rough objects, and blows.
- Fabric Gloves (Cotton): Useful for handling dirt or light abrasion but not sharp materials.
- Coated Fabric Gloves: Provide slip resistance for handling items like bricks, wire, or containers.
- Aramid Fiber Gloves: Durable, cut-resistant, and protect against heat and cold.
- Aluminized Gloves: Reflect heat and provide insulation but need inserts for cold protection.
2. Ensure Proper Fit and Use:
- Gloves should fit snugly but not too tight.
- Loose gloves reduce dexterity and may not provide full protection.
- Make sure gloves fully cover your hands and wrists.
3. Inspect and Replace Gloves Regularly:
- Check gloves for wear, such as holes, tears, or thinning.
- Replace gloves that are damaged or no longer effective.
- Notify your supervisor if gloves fail during a task or don’t provide the right protection.
4. Report Concerns Immediately:
- If gloves don’t fit, are uncomfortable, or are inadequate for a task, let your supervisor know.
- The company can replace gloves or assess the task to provide better protection.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
Let me share an example: A worker handling sharp metal sheets wore fabric gloves instead of cut-resistant gloves. During the task, the glove tore, and the worker suffered a deep cut requiring stitches. This injury could have been prevented by selecting the right glove material for the hazard.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect gloves before use for signs of wear or damage.
- Select and use the correct gloves for the task at hand.
- Report damaged gloves or PPE concerns immediately.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide appropriate gloves for each job task.
- Replace damaged gloves and assess tasks to ensure hazards are adequately controlled.
- Train employees on proper glove selection, fit, and care.
Discussion & Questions
- "Are there tasks where you feel the provided gloves aren’t sufficient for protection?"
- "Have you noticed any signs of glove wear or damage during your tasks?"
- "Do you feel the gloves we provide fit properly and allow you to work comfortably?"
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to inspecting our gloves before each use, using the correct gloves for each task, and immediately reporting any issues. By doing this, we can prevent hand injuries and keep ourselves safe.
Wrap-Up
Proper hand protection is critical. Your hands are tools you use every day—protect them by wearing the right gloves for the job, checking for damage, and speaking up if something isn’t right. Safety starts with you, and together, we can create a safer workplace.
Standards Overview
- OSHA requires employers to provide and employees to wear hand protection when hands are exposed to workplace hazards.
- OSHA Standard 1910.138 specifies that gloves must be appropriate for the specific hazards present, such as cuts, abrasions, heat, cold, or chemical exposure.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The information presented is based on best practices and general industry standards but may not apply to all workplace situations.
It is the responsibility of the employer, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited those of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). 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 encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals to address specific concerns or questions. Always follow your organization's policies and procedures for workplace safety and hazard mitigation.”
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