Safety gloves are an essential component of personal protective equipment (PPE), providing a barrier between the hands and potential hazards. For skilled tradespeople, construction workers, industrial employees, and safety-conscious professionals in Estonia, selecting the right gloves is critical to ensure safety and efficiency at work.

Understanding the Risks: Hazard Assessment

Chemicals can cause burns, irritation, or systemic toxicity. Gloves made from nitrile, latex, or neoprene offer varying levels of chemical resistance.

Cuts, abrasions, punctures, and impact injuries are common in industrial settings. Gloves with reinforced palms and fingers provide added protection.

Extreme heat or cold can damage skin tissue. Thermal gloves are designed to insulate against temperature extremes.

Electricians and workers exposed to electrical risks require gloves that offer dielectric protection and are tested for voltage resistance.

Types of Safety Gloves

For light-duty tasks and when glove turnover is high, disposable gloves offer convenience and hygiene.

Durable and resistant to abrasions, leather gloves are suitable for a variety of industrial applications.

These gloves provide a balance between dexterity and protection, often featuring coatings like polyurethane for enhanced grip.

Specifically designed to withstand hazardous chemicals, these gloves are made from materials like PVC, neoprene, or rubber.

Insulating gloves are critical for those working with high-voltage equipment, offering protection from electric shocks.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Safety Gloves

The glove material should be chosen based on the type of hazards present and the durability required for the job.

A proper fit is essential for maintaining dexterity and comfort, which in turn affects worker compliance and productivity.

Gloves should allow for sufficient movement and grip to safely handle tools and materials.

Ensure the gloves meet the necessary protection levels against the identified hazards.

Understanding the maintenance required to keep gloves in good condition is important for safety and cost-effectiveness.

Standards and Certifications

In Europe, safety gloves must meet specific EN standards that confirm their protective capabilities.

In the US, the ANSI/ISEA standards provide a guide for glove selection based on performance criteria.

Best Practices for Glove Use and Maintenance

Correct procedures for putting on and taking off gloves minimize contamination and extend glove life.

Regular inspection for wear and tear is crucial, and damaged gloves should be replaced immediately.

Clean gloves according to manufacturer instructions and store them properly to maintain their protective qualities.