Among the most common workplace accidents are hand injuries. This requires hand protection to be a crucial part of work safety protocols across numerous industries. Regardless of whether it is catering, carpentry, or metalworking, protecting workers’ hands is necessary.
Taking into consideration the high stakes of carpentry and metalworking, there is a high risk of injury as workers are handling sharp cutting tools and welding equipment. Cut-resistant gloves are indeed the first line of defense. These mitts are made from a wide range of materials with different applications and protection ratings.
The glove cut levels of each of them are not the same. They are a key industry standard, and they help in choosing the right one. Selecting the right one for the job lies in understanding the job’s requirements and the industry standards of that job (like food handling, welding etc.).
This post will help make it easy for you to choose your desired mittens in line with cut-resistant levels. It will also explain which ones are suitable for certain industries.
Is hand protection critical?
Hand protection is critical in numerous industries. It helps ensure workers’ safety, especially when they are working with hazardous materials, machinery, or sharp tools.
This is where cut-resistant gauntlets (aka cut proof gloves). Come in handy. They are part of personal protective equipment (PPE). They help reduce the risk of the following injuries:
- Cuts.
- Lacerations.
- Punctures.
Manufacturing them is a blessing. They are vital in business sectors such as food processing, construction, manufacturing, and other daily tasks, especially handling materials such as glass and sheet metal.
However, one thing should be noted. Each pair of cut-resistant mittens is not made the same way. They are graded based on their cut resistance levels. It is hence important to choose the right ones for the current task.
Understanding Cut-Resistant Gloves
Cut-proof gloves are an important component of safety gear. They are made to protect workers’ hands against injuries in risky jobs. They aim to help create a strong barrier to protect hands from sharp objects without affecting dexterity, comfort, and movement.
The cut levels for these mitts are incredible because they are made from specialized materials. These materials can resist the force of sharp objects.
The safety mittens made from them are ideal for tasks that involve blades, glass, metals, and other hazardous items. The primary materials used in producing them are as follows:
High-Performance Polyethylene (HPPE)
The material HPPE is lightweight and quite durable. It provides exceptional cut resistance and ensures proper movement. It is hence best for tasks that need quick precision.
TAEKI
This material is renowned for advanced cut-proof fibers and offers top-notch comfort, flexibility, and protection. It is suitable for wearing for prolonged periods in demanding environments.
Chainmail
It is often utilized in applications needing the highest degree of cut-proofing. Jobs in glasswork and meat processing require chain mail gloves. They provide a robust barrier against abrasive and sharp materials.
Kevlar
Kevlar offers excellent protection from cuts and heat. Safety mitts made from it are commonly used in the kitchen and for welding work.
Leather Blends
Reinforced split leather provides resistance against both abrasion and cuts. These mitts are perfect for rugged work.
Reinforcements made of fiberglass and steel
When glass or steel fibers are woven into safety gauntlets, they provide a higher degree of protection.
What do cut resistance levels indicate?
The cut resistant gloves levels are classified as per EN 388 (European standard for protective mitts). It helps measure the way a glove can resist abrasions, cuts, punctures, and tears.
The ISO 13997 Cut Test determines its cut resistance levels. They are further divided between Levels A and F.
Each level corresponds to the amount of force (measured in Newtons (N)) needed to cut through the mitts’ material. A straight-edged blade can do that. Here is a detailed breakdown:
- Level A: Protects against very low cut risks requiring a force of two to five Newtons. They are suitable for work like general maintenance and light handling.
- Level B: This level provides slightly higher protection against a force of around five to ten Newtons. They are suitable for basic assembly work or light-duty cutting tasks.
- Level C: Provides medium-level cut resistance requiring a force of 10 to 15 Newtons. It is suitable for tasks like handling lightweight metals or plastics.
- Level D: Safety mitts on this level are made for higher cut risks that have a force of 15 to 22 Newtons. They are best for industries like construction and metalworking.
- Level E: Provides a very good level of protection against cut risks of 22 to 30 Newtons. These gauntlets are best for handling heavy-duty materials or sharp glass.
- Level F: The maximum cut resistance level of beyond 30 Newtons is repelled by these mitts. They are used in glasswork and meat processing. Level 5 cut resistance is their numerical equivalent.
The ISO 13997 test complements the traditional COOP test. It provides more accurate results for materials that can dull blades. Understanding these cut levels helps professionals and business owners select the ones that meet the safety requirements of their respective work environments. This ensures optimal performance and protection.
Factors to consider when selecting the correct cut-proof gloves
Choosing the correct safety mitts involves considering many factors (other than the materials and cut levels for gloves offered). Those who require them should ensure they are suitable for their requirements.
Nature of work
The nature of work is the deciding factor when choosing them. Construction workers and metal fabricators need those that protect their hands against cuts and punctures. They can protect against sharp objects poking through them.
Meanwhile, kitchen staff require safety gauntlets that are lightweight and provide for more dexterity.
Those who frequently switch tasks can follow a worthwhile tactic. They should have multiple pairs of mitts, with each one designed for a certain purpose. Disposable ones are best for light-duty tasks. Heavy-duty work requires high-rated safety mitts.
Risks of Injury
Assessing the level of risk in the work environment is important. In case of a high likelihood of encountering blades or other sharp objects, workers will require mitts having a high level of cut-proofing. Some industries are accident-prone. Choosing the safety mitts that provide the maximum level of protection is necessary.
It is also important to think about other risks present. Those working in cold environments need cold-protective gauntlets with cut-proof properties, safeguarding their hands against both frostbite and injuries.
Level of Cut-Resistance
The cut-proofing level offered by the protective mittens is an important factor to consider. In case the job involves handling sharp tools, they provide a higher level of protection and are very good. Those rated at level five are best for high-risk jobs. Whereas those at levels 3 and 4 are good for low-risk environments.
The idea is striking a balance between comfort and protection. Gloves with a high level of cut resistance are thicker and less flexible. Choosing the ones that provide the right amount of protection and dexterity helps in the performance of tasks effectively.
Materials used in their production
Each material used in cut-resistant mitts provides different strengths and weaknesses. Tasks requiring flexibility and precision require the ones that are made from nylon or polyester. High-risk environments require Kevlar or metal-mesh mitts. They provide top-class protection against serious cuts.
Understanding each material’s properties will help people choose the right ones. Some of them combine one or more materials to provide both flexibility and protection.
Level of Comfort and Proper Fitting
Regardless of how protective the glove is, it cannot serve its purpose if it does not fit properly. If they are excessively tight, they can restrict movement. Loose gloves are accident-prone due to a lack of fitting.
It is also wise to consider the level of comfort, especially if they will be worn for extended periods. Gloves that are not comfortable cause fatigue. They can also raise the likelihood of accidents. Ones that provide a good fit and good protection are worth a lot.
Over to You
Cut-proof gloves have worthwhile applications. They are suitable for workers in industrial environments and high-risk settings involving cuts. Those who are working in commercial and industrial kitchens can also make good use of them to ensure their hands are safe against cuts and injuries.
