What are the main functions of safety gloves?

Safety gloves are a type of personal protective equipment used to protect hands from various harmful factors. Their main functions include the following aspects:

Physical protection: Safety gloves can effectively prevent mechanical injuries to the hands, such as cutting, squeezing, friction, etc. For example, welding gloves, heat-resistant gloves, etc. can prevent high temperatures, sparks or high-temperature objects from harming the hands.

Chemical protection: When working with acids, alkalis, solvents, corrosive chemicals, etc., safety gloves can prevent chemicals from penetrating the skin and avoid chemical burns or poisoning. Gloves made of different materials (such as nitrile gloves, neoprene gloves) have different chemical protection properties.

Biological protection: In industries such as medical, laboratory or food processing, safety gloves can prevent the spread of bacteria, viruses or other microorganisms to ensure the health and safety of operators.

Anti-slip and anti-static: Some safety gloves also have anti-slip functions to improve the hand's grip and prevent slips or operational errors in slippery or unstable environments. In addition, some gloves also have anti-static functions, which are suitable for working environments that are sensitive to static electricity, such as electronics and chemicals.

Improve work efficiency and comfort: Choosing the right gloves can not only provide safety protection, but also improve the comfort and flexibility of operation, reduce hand fatigue, and thus improve overall work efficiency.

What factors should be considered when choosing safety gloves?
When choosing safety gloves, you cannot simply decide based on appearance or price, but should consider the following key factors comprehensively:

Identify dangerous factors in the work environment:
First, you must clarify the types of hazards that may exist in the operation, such as high temperature, low temperature, chemical corrosion, electric shock, cutting, mechanical injury, etc. Choose gloves with corresponding protection levels according to these risks.

Choose the right material:
Gloves made of different materials are suitable for different protection needs. For example:
Nitrile gloves: oil-resistant, acid-resistant, suitable for chemical protection.
Neoprene gloves: heat-resistant, ozone-resistant, suitable for high-temperature operations.
Latex gloves: good elasticity, suitable for medical and laboratory use.
Leather gloves: wear-resistant, cut-resistant, suitable for mechanical operation.

Glove size and fit: The gloves must fit the hand shape, neither too tight to affect the operation, nor too loose to cause protection failure. The right size can also reduce hand fatigue and improve operating comfort.

Durability and service life: Choose gloves of different durability according to the frequency and intensity of operation. For example, gloves that are frequently used may need to choose more durable materials, while disposable gloves can choose lower-cost types.

Compliance with relevant standards and certifications: Choose gloves that meet national or industry standards (such as EN 388, ASTM D6356, etc.) to ensure that their protective performance meets the requirements. At the same time, check whether the product has passed the certification of authoritative organizations, such as CE certification, ISO certification, etc.

Cost and cost-effectiveness: On the premise of meeting safety requirements, the cost and cost-effectiveness of gloves should also be considered. In long-term use, choosing gloves with high cost-effectiveness can reduce overall operating costs.

What should be paid attention to during the use of safety gloves?
In the process of using safety gloves, correct use methods and daily maintenance are equally important, otherwise it may lead to protection failure and even cause safety accidents. The following are matters that need attention:

Check the status of gloves before use: Before each use, the gloves must be carefully checked for damage, aging, cracks, stickiness or hardening. Once any abnormality is found, stop using the gloves immediately and replace them with new gloves.

Cleaning and maintenance:

Cleaning: Choose the appropriate cleaning method according to the material of the gloves. For example, rubber gloves can be washed with warm water and neutral detergent, and avoid using strong acids and alkalis; latex gloves should avoid contact with oily substances.

Drying: After washing, they should be dried thoroughly to avoid residual moisture causing the gloves to mold or deteriorate.

Storage: Gloves should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, avoiding direct sunlight or high temperature environment. For gloves that are easy to stick (such as latex gloves), talcum powder can be sprinkled on the surface to prevent sticking.

Regular replacement: The service life of gloves is limited. Even if the appearance is intact, they may lose their protective properties due to internal aging. The replacement cycle should be formulated according to the frequency of use and the working environment. It is generally recommended to replace them every 3-6 months, or judge according to the actual use.

Correct wearing and removal:

Wearing: Make sure that the gloves completely cover the hands, the fingers are flexible, and do not affect the operation.

Removal: Avoid direct contact with the outer surface of the gloves to avoid contaminating the hands. It is recommended to take off the gloves by turning them outward from the wrist to avoid direct contact with the outside of the gloves.

Avoid using gloves in certain situations: In some special operations, wearing gloves may pose a safety hazard. For example:
When operating high-speed rotating equipment such as drills and grinders, you should avoid wearing gloves to avoid being caught in the machinery.
When performing delicate operations or work that requires high sensitivity to touch, gloves may affect the accuracy of the operation.