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What you need to know about hand protection

construction gloves

Hand injuries are one of the most frequent injuries suffered by construction workers according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics.1 Though usually minor, they can cause days off work or even permanent or partial disability. Selecting and wearing the right glove for the hazard is essential.

What You Can Do:
  • Choose the right gloves: Select gloves designed for the hazard and task.
  • Seek guidance: If unsure what glove to use, ask your supervisor, safety director or request a hazard assessment.
  • Ensure proper fit: Gloves should fit properly to provide adequate protection
  • Comfort is important: Choose gloves that meet the hazard requirement, but are also comfortable for extended use.
  • Inspect regularly: Regularly inspect gloves for holes, damage or other potential hazards.
  • Replace when necessary: Change gloves immediately if they show signs of wear or other potential hazards appear
  • Wear gloves consistently: Don’t get caught bare handed. Always wear appropriately rated gloves on the jobsite to ensure continuous protection, as hazards can change rapidly.

Understand Potential Hazards:
  • Cuts/Lacerations
  • Punctures
  • Amputations
  • Abrasions
  • Chemical or Thermal Burns
  • Skin Absorption of Harmful Substances
  • Electrical Shock or Burn
  • Arc Flash Events
  • Frostbite

Types of Gloves Available:
  • Cut resistant gloves: Classified under ANSI/ISEA 105 Hand Protection Classification, ranging from A1 (minimal to no cut protection) to A9 (used for extreme cut hazards)
  • Chemical-resistant gloves: Protect against hazardous chemicals
  • Electrical safety gloves: Insulated gloves rated for different voltage levels
  • Arch flash gloves: Gloves designed to help protect against arch flash events and carry different ratings based upon voltage or arch flash calorie rating (heat energy).
  • Mechanics gloves: Specialty gloves for repair and maintenance tasks with different levels of cut and impact protections
  • Medical gloves: Disposable and protective gloves designed to provide a barrier between bloodborne pathogens, bacteria, viruses and other harmful substances.
  • Cold weather gloves – Insulated gloves to protect against cold environments.
  • Heat resistant gloves – Gloves designed to protect against heat hazards

Why hand protection matters

Hands are essential for work, yet hand injuries are one of the most common injuries in the workplace. Hazards change rapidly on the jobsite and selecting a glove rated for your work and wearing them consistently can significantly reduce these potential hazards.
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More resources recommended for you

Supplement this talk: OSHA: Personal Protective Equipment

More on this topic: Personal Protective Equipment, Personal Protective Equipment Assessment Checklist

Construction resources: Construction Risk Management

1Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Personal Protective Equipment.

The information included is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts. It is the reader’s responsibility to comply with any applicable local, state, or federal regulations. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, its affiliates and their employees make no warranties about the information nor guarantee of results, and they assume no liability in connection with the information provided.