The Work Glove: A Forgotten Safety Tool

Today, construction and industrial development is a way of life for a majority of the world's population. Safety measures are continually improving for construction and industrial workers. One of the most important developments in safety equipment for these workers is job-specific work gloves. Take a look at a few of the many types of gloves available for various industries: Disposable Gloves - Available in many sizes and thicknesses, these gloves are typically found in the food service and medical industry. Polyethylene and vinyl gloves are commonly used in food service industries, offering comfort and breathe-ability in general purpose applications, such as food processing. Latex gloves are typically found in the medical industry, offering protection against chemical processing and the handling of acids and caustics. Disposable gloves are also used in industries requiring metal treatment, paint and varnish manufacturing, petrochemical and oil refining, the handling of rough castings and steel bars, the use of electronics, light assembly, inspection and quality control. Heavy Utility Gloves - With a synthetic leather palm and reinforced thumbs and fingertips, these gloves are durable and comfortable. They can also be used in a variety of industries including light demolition, landscaping, and material handling. Heavy Utility Gloves are also great for any job requiring heavy machine operation. Cold Condition & Waterproof Gloves - These gloves come in different sizes and styles to fit different needs. They keep hands warm and dry in inclement weather conditions. Cold Condition Gloves are perfect for the ocean import and export industries as well as winter resort work, and airport trades. As an added bonus, they are among the best gloves for recreational skiing and snowboarding. Leather Welding Gloves - Welding gloves are used in welding and heat applications along with any other application requiring heat, flame, or spark protection. The first step in choosing the proper welding glove is learning the different types of heat: Radiant Heat is generated by the sun or any source of fire. Ambient Heat is the surrounding atmospheric temperature. Conduct Heat is the direct contact of a hot surface. The next step is to consider the weight of materials being handled, the contact temperature, and the time of exposure to the heat. It is important to choose a welding glove that fits the needs of all the variables in consideration. Cut Resistant Gloves - The name says it all. A lot of industries require the use of sharp objects, and these gloves are perfect for all of them. High performance strings provide cut and abrasion resistance, and high performance yarns further protect the hands when working with sharp objects. Various material weights provide longer durability and additional dexterity where needed. Some styles are dipped or coated with a polymer to provide a better grip and increase durability. Common uses include, but are not limited to, food preparation, glass and metal handling, automotive work, and electronic work. There are many more types and styles of gloves available. Though the most important safety tool you can have is knowledge, job-specific gloves are the key to hand protection. Always choose a glove that fits your hands well and provides the best protection for the job at hand.