Finding the Right Work Gloves for the Job in Australia

Understanding Work Gloves in Australia

Work gloves are essential for ensuring hand protection across various industries in Australia. They serve as vital components of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Australian workers frequently refer to national standards to ensure their safety gloves meet stringent requirements. The primary standards include AS/NZS 2161.3:1998 and AS/NZS 2161.10:2005.

Mechanical Risks

One widely recognised standard is EN 388, which protects against mechanical risks such as abrasion, cuts, punctures, and tears. Gloves meeting this standard have been thoroughly tested to withstand these risks. More about it can be found here.

Chemical and Micro-organisms Protection

The relevant standard for chemicals and microorganisms is AS/NZS 2161.10:2005. These gloves usually feature a “chemical resistant” pictogram and a three-digit code.

Updates to Standards

In 2016, EN 388 was updated to EN 388:2016. This update added new tests for assessing glove performance.

Practical Application

Construction, manufacturing, and healthcare industries rely on these gloves for protection.

Glove Ratings

Safety glove ratings include impact protection and are categorized as Pass (P), Fail (F), or Not tested (X).

See our range of gloves here.

Types of Work Gloves and Their Uses

Many types of work gloves are available in Australia, each designed for specific tasks and hazards. This section outlines the uses and features of common work gloves such as leather and rigger gloves, nitrile, latex, PVC gloves, specialty gloves for chemical and temperature resistance, and disposable safety gloves.

Leather and Rigger Gloves

Leather gloves are popular for their durability and flexibility. They are often used in construction, farming, and heavy-duty manual labor. These gloves provide excellent protection against abrasions and punctures. Rigger gloves, a leather glove, are commonly used in industries like mining and forestry. They offer robust hand protection with reinforced palms and fingers to handle rough and heavy materials.

Key Features:

• Durability: Long-lasting with high resistance to wear and tear.
• Protection: Shields against cuts, abrasions, and punctures.
• Comfort: Provides a good grip and dexterity for handling tools and materials.

Nitrile, Latex, and PVC Gloves

Nitrile, latex, and PVC gloves are essential in medical, laboratory, and food-handling environments. Nitrile gloves are known for their chemical resistance and are suitable for tasks involving oils and solvents. Latex gloves offer a snug fit and high tactile sensitivity, making them perfect for precision tasks. PVC gloves provide reliable protection against acids and caustic substances, and they are ideal for cleaning and janitorial work.

Key Features:

• Chemical Resistance: Nitrile and PVC withstand various chemicals.
• Sensitivity: Latex provides excellent touch sensitivity.
• Flexibility: All three types offer good flexibility and dexterity.

Specialty Gloves for Chemical and Temperature Resistance

Specialty gloves are designed for situations involving extreme conditions. Chemical-resistant gloves, like those made from butyl or neoprene, protect against hazardous substances in industries such as petrochemicals and manufacturing. Temperature-resistant gloves, often made from Kevlar or Aluminized fabric, are crucial for handling hot or cold objects in environments like foundries and freezers.

Key Features:

• Chemical Protection: Shields hands from harmful chemicals and solvents.
• Temperature Resistance: Protects against extreme heat or cold.
• Specialized Materials: Often includes advanced materials like Kevlar or neoprene.

Disposable Safety Gloves

Disposable safety gloves are commonly used in environments where hygiene is essential, such as healthcare, food preparation, and laboratories. These gloves, often made from nitrile, latex, or vinyl, are economical and designed for single-use to prevent cross-contamination. They offer a balance between protection and tactile sensitivity, ensuring tasks are performed safely and effectively.

Key Features:

• Hygiene: Prevents contamination in sensitive environments.
• Economical: Cost-effective and easy to replace.
• Versatility: Suitable for various industries and tasks.

By understanding these gloves’ specific uses and features, workers can choose the most appropriate protection for their needs in different work environments in Australia.

Safety Features and Compliance

Work gloves in Australia come with various safety features to protect against specific risks and comply with Australian and international standards. These features include cut resistance, abrasion protection, and safeguards against cold and UV exposure.

Cut Resistant and Abrasion Protection

Cut-resistant gloves are essential for workers handling sharp objects or machinery. Materials like Kevlar, Dyneema, and steel fibers are often used. These gloves are graded based on cut resistance level, ensuring appropriate protection for different tasks.

Abrasion protection is necessary for workers who come into contact with rough surfaces. Standards like EN388 rate gloves on their abrasion resistance, making it easier for workers to select suitable gloves. By following these guidelines, workers can minimize the risk of injury.

Protection Against Cold and UV Exposure

Workers exposed to cold environments require gloves that prevent heat loss. Insulated gloves, often rated under EN511:2006, offer protection by keeping hands warm in cold conditions. These gloves are also tested for water permeability.

UV exposure is another risk, particularly for outdoor workers. Gloves with UV-protective coatings help shield workers’ skin from harmful sun rays. For instance, UVex safety gloves prioritize fit and comfort while offering protection against UV hazards.

Standards: AS/NZS & EN Requirements

Australian and New Zealand Standards, such as AS/NZS 2161.5:1998, set the general requirements for protective gloves. These include performance criteria for resistance to cuts, punctures, and abrasions.

EN standards, including EN420 and EN388, are also followed to ensure gloves meet international testing and certification requirements. Compliance with these standards ensures the gloves offer reliable protection and meet rigorous safety criteria.

Selecting the Right Work Gloves

Choosing the right work gloves ensures safety, enhances performance, and maintains comfort during tasks. The main aspects to consider include fit, comfort, and glove quality.

Fit and Comfort Considerations

It is crucial to select work gloves that fit well. Gloves that are too tight can limit movement, while ones that are too loose can slip off. Workers must find gloves that match their hand size and shape to ensure mastery. This involves measuring the length and width of their hands to select the appropriate size.

Comfort also plays a vital role. Gloves that cause discomfort may lead to reduced usage or prolonged wear and tear. Workers should look for gloves that are made from breathable materials to reduce sweat. Additionally, gloves with adjustable cuffs or wrist straps can provide a better fit and prevent slipping during tasks. It’s essential to try different styles to find the most comfortable options for the specific task at hand.

Identifying Glove Quality and Durability

Quality and durability are key factors in selecting work gloves. High-quality gloves are often made from leather, nitrile, or cut-resistant fabrics. These materials are designed to withstand specific hazards such as cuts, abrasions, or chemical exposure.

Durability can be assessed by examining the stitching and reinforcement in high-wear areas like the fingertips and palms. Gloves with double-stitched seams typically last longer. Inspecting the thickness and flexibility of the glove material is also important. Thicker gloves offer more protection but might reduce dexterity, while thinner gloves offer better movement but might wear out faster.

Different styles cater to different tasks, with heavy-duty gloves being suitable for construction and lightweight gloves for intricate work. By focusing on these aspects, workers can ensure their hands are well-protected without compromising on performance.

For more details and tips, check out this guide on choosing work gloves.

Accessories and Additional Features

Work gloves in Australia come with various accessories and additional features. These enhancements improve functionality, safety, and convenience for users.

Glove Clips and Keepers

Glove clips and keepers are essential accessories for anyone using work gloves. They help users keep gloves easily accessible when not in use. Rather than stuffing gloves into pockets or bags, clips attach to belts or clothing, reducing the risk of losing them.

Benefits:

• Easy accessibility
• Reduced loss risk
• Increased efficiency

Colour Variants and Visibility

Different colour variants can play a crucial role in work environments. Bright colours like orange, yellow, and green enhance visibility, making gloves easy to spot. This is particularly important in low-light conditions or high-risk areas.

Brands like Prosense and PIP provide gloves in various colours, including red, black, blue, and grey. Colour coding can also help in distinguishing gloves for specific tasks or safety levels. High-visibility gloves are especially useful in construction and roadwork sectors.

Key Colours:

• High-Visibility: Orange, Yellow, Green
• Standard Options: Red, Black, Blue, Grey

Choosing the right colour not only meets safety regulations but also improves workflow efficiency and safety compliance.