Puncture-resistant gloves are essential PPE for professions where workers handle sharp objects like needles, glass, or metal. They are designed to minimize injury risks from hazardous materials.
Safety levels for puncture-resistant gloves are categorized under different rating systems. The prominent ANSI/ISEA system assigns levels 1-5, with 1 being the lowest protection and 5 the highest. It measures the time for an object to puncture glove surfaces. Another system is EN 388, which also uses levels 1-4 based on puncture force.
Understanding the rating systems and protection levels is important for selecting gloves that ensure both safety and comfort for tasks in industries like Automotive, Electronics, Construction, and Metal Fabrication.
Understanding Puncture Resistance
Puncture Resistance Standards
There are two major standards that determine the puncture resistance of gloves: the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the European Standard EN 388. Both ANSI and EN 388 measure puncture resistance by testing how quickly a hole forms when a pointed object attempts to puncture the glove’s surface. The puncture resistance levels from the ANSI/ISEA 105 and EN 388 standards are often marked on the label or glove branding.
Rating Systems Comparison
The ANSI and EN 388 rating systems have different scales for puncture resistance. ANSI uses a scale of 1-5, while EN 388 uses a scale of 1-4. Here is a comparison of the rating systems:
| Rating | ANSI/ISEA 105 | EN 388 |
| Level 1 | 10-19 newtons | 20-59 newtons |
| Level 2 | 20-59 newtons | 60-99 newtons |
| Level 3 | 60-99 newtons | 100-149 newtons |
| Level 4 | 100-149 newtons | ≥ 150 newtons |
| Level 5 | ≥ 150 newtons | N/A |
Note: The higher the protection level, the lower the dexterity of the gloves. Workers should consider this factor when choosing the appropriate puncture-resistant gloves for their tasks.
Selection and Use of Puncture Resistant Gloves
General Use and Construction
In construction, workers encounter a variety of hazards that could lead to punctures, from handling rebar to nails and screws. Gloves rated under ANSI and EN388 standards provide clear guidance on the level of puncture resistance offered. General use gloves for construction often balance flexibility with protection, catering to the diverse range of tasks.
Construction Applications:
●Rebar handling
●Carpentry
●Masonry
●Electrical installation
For example, gloves with an ANSI Puncture Level 4 are typically desired in construction settings for their higher resistance to punctures, which could be caused by sharp objects such as tools and building materials.
Specialized Industries
Specialized industries, including automotive, aerospace, and metal fabrication, require gloves that protect against the specific risks present in each field. Precision work, such as in automotive assembly, demands a glove that allows fine motor movements while protecting against punctures from sharp metal components and tools.
Specialized Industry Applications:
| Industry | Risks | Glove Features |
| Automotive | Sharp parts, tools | Dexterity, tactile sensitivity |
| Aerospace | Composite materials | Cut and puncture resistance |
| Metal Fabrication | Sharp edges, debris | Durability, secure grip |
| Meat Processing | Knives, deboning tools | Cut and puncture resistance |
| Glass Handling | Broken glass shards | High puncture resistance |
| Mining & Demolition | Abrasive surfaces, sharp objects | Enhanced protection |
| Forestry | Splinters, equipment | Grip, impact resistance |
| Recycling | Sharp objects, metal scraps | Chemical, cut resistance |
| Cargo Handling | Rough packaging, straps | Durability, dexterity |
These industries have stringent standards to prevent hand injuries, and the proper selection of gloves is crucial for workers’ safety. Gloves designed for glass handling or metal fabrication, for instance, will often prioritize a higher puncture resistance due to the prevalent risks of sharp materials.
Maintenance and Care Cleaning Procedures
Cleaning Procedures
To maintain the effectiveness and longevity of puncture-resistant gloves, proper cleaning procedures should be followed. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and laundering to prevent damage to the gloves. Generally, it is recommended to:
1.Wash the gloves using mild detergent in warm water
2.Rinse thoroughly to remove any residual detergent
3.Gently squeeze out excess water, avoiding twisting or wringing as it may damage the glove
4.Hang or lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight and heat sources
Inspection and Disposal
Regular glove inspection is crucial in maintaining safety levels. Prior to each use, gloves should be closely examined for any signs of damage, such as holes, tears, or excessive wear. The following guidelines can be used for the inspection process:
1.Visually inspect the gloves for obvious damage
2.Perform a tactile inspection by feeling for any irregularities in surface texture
3.Check for compromised stitching or seams
If any signs of damage or degradation are found, the gloves should be promptly replaced to ensure continued puncture protection. Proper disposal procedures must be followed as per local regulations.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage of puncture-resistant gloves is essential to maintain their protective properties and extend their lifespan. To ensure optimal storage conditions, adhere to these guidelines:
●Store gloves in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources
●Keep gloves away from hazardous substances and sharp objects to avoid accidental damage
●Store gloves in their original packaging or a designated storage container to protect them from environmental contaminants
Following these maintenance and care guidelines will help ensure that puncture-resistant gloves maintain their safety levels and continue to provide effective protection against punctures and cuts.
Advancements in Glove Technology
Over the years, advancements in technology and materials used in puncture-resistant gloves have greatly improved their safety levels. High-performance materials such as Kevlar, Dyneema, nitrile, and even stainless steel are now commonly used in manufacturing gloves to provide better protection from sharp objects.
Gloves with puncture resistance are categorized in terms of their performance using ANSI/ISEA 105 and EN388 standards. ANSI/ISEA classifies gloves on a scale of 1-5, while EN388 uses a scale of 1-4. Both standards involve a steel stylus puncturing a test sample and measuring the force required to puncture the glove. In addition, ASTM F2878 needle puncture testing is used specifically for needlestick resistance.
Some of the advancements in glove technology include:
1.Multiple layers: Modern gloves often utilize a combination of materials or multiple layers to enhance puncture resistance. This may include an exterior shell made from tough, cut-resistant materials and an interior layer designed for comfort and flexibility.
2.Coatings: Many gloves feature specialized coatings, like nitrile or polyurethane, to provide enhanced grip while maintaining puncture resistance. These coatings help maintain dexterity, allowing the wearer to handle sharp objects more securely.
3.Specialized designs: Manufacturers have also developed gloves for specific industries or tasks, tailoring their design and material composition to address unique hazards and requirements. For instance, gloves designed for medical professions may prioritize needlestick resistance, while those for construction workers may focus on puncture and abrasion resistance.
Choose gloves with puncture resistance matched to workplace hazards. Consult rating standards to determine the level needed. Ensure gloves provide the required protection and dexterity for safe work.