Glove sizes are not all the same. What should
you be looking for when choosing a pair that you can count on? The following
are the main characteristics of cut-resistant gloves that you ought to pay attention to before buying a pair.
1. Level of Cut Resistance
The cut resistance rating of the glove is one
of the most critical points to consider. Gloves used in Australia are usually
tested under the EN 388 standard, which provides grading of gloves from Level 1
(basic) to higher measurements up to Level 5 (maximum protection). You ought to
wear gloves with the right level of protection, depending on the type of
hazards you are exposed to in the workplace.
As an example, the food handlers who work with
a sharp knife might be satisfied with the Level 3 protection, whereas the
individual who works in metal fabrication might demand Level 5 in case of more
challenging work.
2. Material Composition
The nature of the material that constitutes the gloves has a great influence on the durability and effectiveness of the gloves. Typical cut-resistant glove materials are:
● Kevlar®—Lightweight, resistant to heat, and provides good protection from cuts.
●Dyneema (High Performance Polythene) or HPPE Woo—much stronger and best used in precision work.
● Blends of steel or fibreglass—Can be found in heavy-duty gloves to provide the maximum protection.
Other gloves contain a coating such as
polyurethane (PU), nitrile, or latex to provide additional grip and abrasion
resistance and/or allow their use in wet or oily conditions.
3. Comfort and Fit
A glove may provide the best protection, yet when it is difficult to wear, they will not wear it regularly. Seek the following features:
● Porous cloths to curtail sweat.
● Elasticity so that the golf club is free-moving.
●Form-ergonomic design accommodating dexterity such as may be involved in a fairly exact or exacting task.
Comfort is not just the ease of use, but it
also influences productivity and safety immediately.
4. Grip and Dexterity
They should have a good grip, more so on
slippery or small components. The majority of cut-resistant gloves contain palms that are thinly synthesised or have unique
coatings that enhance the grips without influencing flexibility.
This is a real asset in construction,
glasswork, or even the repairs of a mechanic, since in this case, there is a
need to weigh the equipment or meter material and be able to handle it safely
yet accurately.
5. Additional Safety Features
Depending on the hazards in the workplace, the gloves may be programmed with extra safety safeguards, including
● Knuckle and finger body shot protection.
● A sharp or jagged object is puncture-resistant.
● Chemical resistance to exposure to solvents or cleaning agents.
It is also advisable that you match your gloves
with other safety gear, like hard hats, safety glasses, just to make
your body fully protected.
Final Thoughts
It is a minor cost to pay when there is a
comparison between the expenditures occurring on hand injuries and productivity
loss. Knowing the main features, like the degree of cut resistance, the
material to be employed, comfort, and grip, you will make a sound decision that
will protect your hands and help you complete your job easily.
