Selecting gloves doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Using a clear, structured approach that evaluates Task, Hazard, and Risk makes the decision-making process simpler and more effective.

1. TASK

Start by understanding the task at hand:

• What kind of work are you doing?
• How much dexterity do you need?
• What are the conditions of your working environment?

Examples of Dexterity Requirements:

• Low Dexterity: For handling large, bulky items, consider leather or PVC gloves with a 7-gauge fabric.
• Medium Dexterity: For smaller objects that fit in one hand, materials like polyester or aramid (10-gauge fabric) work well.
• High Dexterity: For handling tiny items, opt for nylon or HPPE gloves with a finer 13–18-gauge fabric.
  
  

2. HAZARD

Identify potential injury-causing hazards. These can include chemicals, heat, cold, or physical abrasions. Remember:

• Prioritise chemical protection if chemicals are involved.
• For extreme temperatures, specific heat- or cold-resistant gloves will limit your choices but provide essential safety.
  
  

3. RISK

Assess the likelihood of injury by analysing risk factors. Multiply the Risk of Injury Factor with the Hazard Identification Factor to calculate the required level of cut resistance (measured in Newtons).

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Risk Factors: Range from 1 (No Perceived Risk) to 6 (Very High Risk).
• Hazard Factors: Range from 1 (No Hazard) to 5 (No Control).

For example: High Risk (5) x Limited Control (4) = 20 Newtons. Based on EN388:2016, this would require a Level D glove.

The EN388:2016 Standards are a set of European safety standards used to assess and classify protective gloves for mechanical risks, such as cuts, abrasions, punctures, and tears. These standards ensure that gloves provide adequate protection for specific workplace hazards. Key features include:

1. Abrasion Resistance: Scored 1–4 (higher is better).
2. Cut Resistance: Coup test (1–5) and ISO 13997 test (A–F, where F offers the strongest cut protection).
3. Tear Resistance: Scored 1–4.
4. Puncture Resistance: Scored 1–4.
5. Impact Protection (optional): Marked "P" if passed.

The 2016 update added the ISO cut test and optional impact testing for better accuracy and protection. For example, a glove rated 4X43F provides high abrasion, tear, and puncture resistance, with the strongest cut protection (F).

The working environment also dictates the type of glove coating you’ll need:

• Dry Conditions: PU, latex, or nitrile (foam, sandy, or smooth coatings).
• Wet Conditions: Latex, PU, or nitrile with textured coatings.
• Oily/Greasy Environments: Nitrile gloves with specialized coatings.
• Chemical Protection: Latex, nitrile, or PVC gloves.
• Extreme Temperatures: Leather gloves for heat and insulated gloves for cold.

We understand that finding the right gloves and protective wear for your team can be challenging. That’s why we’re here to help you identify the perfect garments and accessories to keep your team safe at work. Beyond gloves, we can also provide comprehensive solutions for your team’s wider uniform needs. Whether you need PPE, high-visibility wear, or workwear tailored to specific tasks, we’ve got you covered.