Selecting the most suitable glove for the task begins with asking the right questions

The challenge for us all in analysis and recommendation of suitable P.P.E is always in accessing the performance requirements in each specific / particular working situation. In this instance, consideration of the suitability of the glove style / material for the necessary work application/s as in ‘fit for purpose’.

By framing a group of questions towards the user in a needs assessment requirement ranking for performance attributes of the glove such as:

Preferred length of glove?
i.e: wrist length, forearm, elbow or shoulder length
Most suitable material of construction
i.e: is Temperature (hot / cold), cut, abrasion, impact, vibration, puncture or chemical as the major consideration for the glove use
Assess the chemical data sheets
(if necessary): Look for the active constituent (concentration of chemical/s that make up the liquid or powder, not marketing brand name) from the M.S.D.S
Level of dexterity or sensitivity
in overall glove design or fingertip control.
Working conditions grip requirements
for Palm and finger surface: i.e: predominantly Dry contact work, Wet grip requirement or Oil

From these answer’s we can then drill down further if required to ascertain the preferred level of performance in: humidity management (removing sweat from the skin), Sanitizing (anti-bacterial treatment), palm padding for comfort or anti vibration, Back of hand protection requirements, etc.

Beyond functionality, our recommendations may also need to take budgetary or economic circumstances into consideration. There is not much point in supplying a high longevity glove to a workforce that disposes of their hand protection every time they take a pause from work.