What are impact resistant gloves?
Impact-resistant gloves are safety gloves designed to protect hands from injuries caused by crushing, pinching, or strikes. They feature impact-absorbing padding (like TPR) and are commonly used in high-risk industries such as construction, mining, and oil and gas. Many also include cut or puncture resistance for added protection.
What do impact resistant gloves do?
Impact-resistant gloves protect against injuries caused by sudden force, blunt impacts, and vibrations. They feature reinforced padding like thermoplastic rubber (TPR) on the knuckles and fingers.
What are ANSI levels of impact resistant gloves ?
The levels of impact resistance in gloves are standardized by the ANSI/ISEA 138 rating, which assesses the glove's ability to protect against blunt force impacts on the knuckles and fingers. This standard classifies impact-resistant gloves into three levels:
- Level 1: Provides the basic level of impact protection. These gloves offer a minimum level of cushioning and are suitable for lower-risk tasks where some impact protection is needed but the risk of high-impact injuries is relatively low.
- Level 2: Offers moderate impact protection. Level 2 gloves have stronger padding and are designed for tasks where there’s a medium risk of impact injuries. They are commonly used in industries like construction and general manufacturing, where impact hazards are present but not extreme.
- Level 3: Delivers the highest level of impact protection. These gloves feature the most robust padding and are ideal for high-risk environments, such as oil and gas, heavy construction, and mining, where hands are at risk of severe impact injuries. Level 3 gloves are designed to withstand more substantial forces and provide maximum protection to vulnerable hand areas.
When selecting impact-resistant gloves, it’s essential to choose the level appropriate for the specific
What material are impact resistant gloves made of?
Impact-resistant gloves combine materials like TPR for impact protection, nitrile or leather for grip and durability, and stretch fabrics for comfort and flexibility. Some also include Kevlar® for cut resistance and foam or gel padding for extra cushioning.
When should impact resistant gloves be worn?
Tasks involving heavy tools, machinery, or materials, such as in the construction, oil and gas, mining, and automotive industries, require impact work gloves where hand injuries from impact are a risk.
Are impact resistant gloves the same as regular gloves?
No, impact-resistant gloves are not the same as regular gloves. They feature reinforced padding (like TPR) to protect against crushing, pinching, and strikes—ideal for high-risk jobs like construction or mining. Regular gloves don’t offer this level of protection.
What should you never do when you use impact resistant gloves?
When using impact-resistant gloves, it’s essential to avoid certain actions to ensure your safety and preserve the gloves’ effectiveness. First, never use gloves that are damaged or worn, as tears, broken seams, or degraded padding will reduce their protective qualities. Additionally, don’t rely on impact gloves for protection against hazards they aren’t designed for, like cuts, chemicals, or heat—always use the right glove for the specific task. Wearing gloves that don’t fit properly is also a risk, as gloves that are too tight or too loose can limit both protection and dexterity, potentially leading to accidents. It’s equally important to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions; for example, avoid exposing the gloves to high-heat drying, which could damage materials and reduce their lifespan.
How effective are impact resistant gloves ?
Impact gloves are highly effective in reducing the risk of fractures, bruises, and crush injuries in high-impact work environments, especially when chosen based on industry-specific needs and certified protection standards.
Can you wash impact-resistant gloves?
Yes, most impact-resistant gloves can be washed—hand-washing with mild soap and air drying is usually best. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to maintain glove durability and protection.