Work Glove Safety
The Problem
Hand injuries are among the most common workplace injuries, and most of them are preventable. However, using the wrong gloves—or damaged gloves—can be just as dangerous as not wearing any protection at all. Tasks involving chemicals, sharp materials, or heavy objects all present risks to your hands. Today, we’ll discuss how to select the right gloves, inspect them, and use them properly to ensure your safety.
Identify the Hazards
- Hand Injuries: Cuts, abrasions, burns, and chemical exposure.
- Worn or Damaged Gloves: Reduced protection and risk of injury.
- Wrong Glove Selection: Gloves that are not task-appropriate (e.g., cut-resistant gloves for chemical tasks).
- Loss of Dexterity: Poorly fitting gloves can affect tool handling, reducing safety and productivity.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
1. Select the Right Gloves:
- Match gloves to the task:
- Leather gloves: Material handling and abrasion resistance.
- Chemical-resistant gloves: Handling hazardous substances.
- Cut-resistant gloves: Working with sharp materials.
- Impact-resistant gloves: Protection against crushing hazards.
- Consider all hazards: Splash risks, sharp tools, impact forces.
- Ensure proper size and fit for dexterity.
2. Inspect Gloves Before Use:
- Check for holes, tears, and worn areas.
- Inspect seams for separation and embedded materials.
- For chemical-resistant gloves:some text
- Look for discoloration or material breakdown.
- Test flexibility and grip.
- Replace gloves immediately if there are any signs of compromise.
3. Proper Usage and Care:
- Keep gloves clean and dry.
- Remove contaminated gloves carefully to avoid exposure.
- Store gloves properly, away from sunlight and chemicals.
- Replace damaged gloves and never reuse disposable gloves.
4. Maintaining Dexterity:
- Select gloves that balance protection with mobility.
- Ensure proper sizing to allow for precision work.
- Consider task duration and grip requirements when selecting gloves.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
Last year, a worker used the wrong gloves for chemical handling. The gloves were not chemical-resistant, and the exposure caused a chemical burn to the worker’s hand. This injury could have been prevented by selecting the right glove type and inspecting it beforehand. Remember, choosing the wrong glove can be as dangerous as not wearing gloves at all.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect gloves before every use and report any damage or issues.
- Select the appropriate glove for the task. If unsure, ask your supervisor.
- Store and care for gloves properly to maintain their effectiveness.
- Replace disposable gloves and damaged gloves immediately.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide gloves that match task-specific hazards.
- Maintain a regular glove inspection and replacement program.
- Offer training on proper glove selection, inspection, and care.
- Ensure gloves are available in various sizes to fit all workers.
Discussion & Questions
- "What tasks do you perform that require specific types of gloves?"
- "Have you encountered worn or damaged gloves while working?"
- "Is there any task where you’re unsure about the right glove to use?"
- "Do you have the gloves you need readily available?"
Encourage workers to share experiences and discuss challenges they’ve faced with glove use.
Commitment/Action Plan
Starting today, let’s commit to inspecting our gloves before every use. If you’re unsure about glove selection for a task, ask your supervisor immediately. Remember, your hands are your most valuable tools—protect them.
Wrap-Up
Proper glove use and care can prevent serious injuries and ensure we all work safely. Thank you for taking glove safety seriously. Always remember: when in doubt, stop and ask.
Standards Overview
- OSHA requires employers to provide gloves appropriate for the specific hazards present in the workplace.
- Key OSHA Requirements:
- Gloves must be matched to hazards (e.g., chemical-resistant, cut-resistant).
- Employees must be trained on proper selection, inspection, and care.
- Gloves must be inspected regularly and replaced when damaged.
- Documentation of selection criteria and glove replacement programs is required.
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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