According to the National Safety Council, hand injuries resulted in the most Days Away from Work, Job Restriction, or Transfer (DART) cases. There is a variety of personal protective equipment (PPE) that minimize exposure to hazards that can cause workplace injuries and illnesses, including hand protection. As defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), workplace injuries and illnesses may result from contact with chemical, radiological, physical, electrical, mechanical, or other workplace hazards. Employers are required to train each worker to use personal protective equipment to know when it is necessary, what kind is necessary, how to properly put it on, adjust, wear and take it off, the limitations of the equipment and proper care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal of the equipment.
The Imperative for Disposable Gloves
Disposable gloves are a type of PPE that can be used, in the right settings, to be used to protect against a wide array of workplace hazards.The hands are among the most vulnerable parts of the body in any work environment. OSHA’s guidelines highlight the importance of selecting the right glove for specific tasks, emphasizing that the correct choice can significantly mitigate occupational risks. In the realm of industrial work, disposable gloves stand out for their versatility and specificity in guarding against particular hazards. Disposable gloves can help in these ways:
- Navigating Hazardous Materials
Handling hazardous materials is a common industrial task where disposable gloves can be used. These materials demand a barrier that can be discarded after use, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination. Whether working with chemicals, solvents, acids, or bases, the right disposable glove can help reduce skin irritation, chemical burns, and the absorption of dangerous substances. The single-use nature of these gloves ensures that each new task begins with a fresh pair, maintaining the integrity of the protective barrier.
- Mitigating Mechanical Hazards
While mechanical hazards traditionally prompt the use of more durable, heavy-duty gloves, there are scenarios where disposable gloves are suitable and recommended. For light mechanical tasks that require a high level of dexterity or when handling objects that could contaminate reusable gloves, disposable options offer a practical solution. They serve as a first line of defense against minor abrasions and cuts, especially in industries like electronics assembly, where precision and cleanliness are paramount.
- Combating Biological Hazards
In the context of biological hazards, disposable gloves are highly recommended. Their role in healthcare settings is common, providing a barrier against pathogens, bacteria, viruses, and bodily fluids. However, their importance extends into industrial settings where biological exposure can occur, such as in waste management and biotechnology. Disposable gloves not only protect the wearer but also reduce the spread of infectious agents, ensuring that each pair used is a new, uncontaminated shield.
Select the right glove, for the right setting