Full definition
Safety gloves are a critical component of personal protective equipment (PPE) designed to protect workers' hands from a variety of hazards present in different industrial environments. The selection of appropriate gloves is essential, as various workplace hazards require specific types of protection. Mechanical protection is governed by the ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 standard, which categorizes gloves based on cut resistance levels from A1 to A9, with levels A4 and A6 being the most common for industrial applications. These levels are determined by the gram-force required to cut through the gloves using a TDM machine, making it vital for procurement managers to understand these ratings when selecting gloves for their workforce. In addition to cut resistance, gloves are also rated for puncture resistance (1-5) and abrasion resistance (1-6), allowing for a comprehensive assessment of their protective capabilities.
Chemical protection is another crucial aspect, particularly in industries where workers are exposed to hazardous substances. The EN 374 and ASTM F739 standards define the permeation breakthrough time, which determines how long a glove can resist chemical penetration. This is vital for workers handling solvents, acids, or other harmful chemicals. Further, thermal protection can be assessed according to EN 407, which covers the glove's resistance to contact heat, convective heat, and molten metal splashes, ensuring safety in high-temperature environments. Electrical protection is specified by ASTM D120, categorizing dielectric gloves from Class 00 (500V) to Class 4 (36,000V), essential for electricians and those working near live electrical equipment.
The materials used in safety gloves vary significantly, each offering unique benefits. Nitrile gloves are the most common due to their oil and chemical resistance, as well as good dexterity. Latex gloves provide excellent elasticity and tactile sensitivity, being made from natural rubber. Neoprene offers protection against chemicals, oils, and flames, while Kevlar and aramid fibers provide high cut resistance, particularly in categories A4 and A6. High-Performance Polyethylene (HPPE) and Dyneema are lightweight yet provide excellent cut resistance. Leather gloves are favored for their abrasion resistance, heat protection, and suitability for welding tasks, while PVC gloves are favored for their chemical resistance and waterproofing capabilities. Multi-hazard gloves combine several materials to offer broader protection, such as an HPPE liner with a nitrile coating for cut and oil resistance. Compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.138 and NOM-017-STPS in Mexico mandates that gloves must be selected based on specific hazards identified in a risk assessment, as no single glove can protect against all hazards. Major brands in the market include Ansell (HyFlex, AlphaTec), Honeywell (North), Showa, PIP, Mechanix Wear, and MCR Safety.