Wearing safety gloves seems simple, but doing it wrong can leave you unprotected. A proper fit and a quick check are just as important as choosing the right glove. Follow these easy steps every time to ensure your gloves keep you safe.
Step 1: Choose the Correct Size
Gloves that are too tight can cut off circulation and cause fatigue. Gloves that are too loose can get caught in machinery or reduce your grip. Measure your hand around the widest part of your palm to find your size according to the brand’s size chart. Don’t just guess!
Step 2: The Right Way to Put Them On
- Make sure your hands are clean and dry.
- Open the glove cuff wide and slide your hand in smoothly.
- Wiggle your fingers all the way to the fingertips.
- For longer cuffs, ensure the glove covers your wrist and that your sleeve is tucked inside the cuff (unless designed to go over). This prevents debris and liquids from getting in.
Step 3: The 30-Second Pre-Use Check (The Most Important Habit!)
Before starting any task, take half a minute to inspect your gloves:
- Look for any cuts, tears, holes, or excessive wear, especially on the palms and fingertips.
- Feel for areas that are thinned out, hardened, or sticky. This means the material is breaking down.
- For chemical or liquid protection, inflate the glove slightly by blowing into it or trapping air, then gently squeeze to listen for leaks (a hissing sound).
Step 4: When to STOP and Change Gloves
If you find any damage during your check, or if you feel a sudden wetness or chemical burn, stop working immediately. Take the gloves off safely and replace them with a new, undamaged pair. A damaged glove is not a glove—it’s a hazard.
Remember: Putting on your gloves correctly and checking them is a quick routine that builds a powerful layer of safety. Make it a non-negotiable habit before every job.
