Toolbox Talk: Glove Safety
What tool in your possession is used the most every single day? Your hands.
The workplace can create many hazards for your hands, whether from chemicals, cuts, or burns. No single glove can provide appropriate protection for every work situation, so it is important to assess the risk for each task and select a glove that provides specialized protection.
Use the right glove for the job:
1. Cotton and fabric gloves: These can keep hands clean and protect against abrasions but may not be strong enough to handle work with rough or sharp materials.
2. Coated fabric gloves: This type of glove can protect against some moderately concentrated chemicals. They can be used in laboratory work provided they are strong enough to protect against the specific chemical being handled.
3. Rubber, plastic, or synthetic gloves: These types of gloves can be used when cleaning or working with oils, solvents, and other chemicals.
4. Leather gloves: These should be used when welding, as the leather can resist sparks and moderate heat. The risk of cuts and abrasions also can be minimized by wearing leather gloves.
5. Aluminized gloves: These gloves are recommended for welding, furnace, and foundry work, as they provide reflective and insulating protection.
6. Kevlar gloves: These have a wide variety of industrial applications. They are cut- and abrasion-resistant and protect against both heat and cold.
7. Chemical/liquid-resistant gloves: Several types of gloves help protect against specific chemicals; you will need to be sure you know which can be used in what situation.
