Year: 2021

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5 Top Hazards for Commercial Trucking and How to Prevent Them

The transportation industry is an essential part of the U.S. economy, and without it, our supply chain would collapse.  Yet research indicates that truck drivers were second only to nurses on days away from work due to injury or illness. Identifying the risks and applying safety measures are critical to keeping trucks on the road.

According to American Trucking Association research, 72.5% of the supply chain load goes by truck. And the 2020 Bureau of Labor Statistics economic trends show that commercial trucking employed the most people in the transportation industry.

But this past year, it’s been a challenge to keep the industry moving. Commercial trucking was second only to nursing in a year monopolized by a pandemic for reported days away from work (DAFW) due to injury or illness.

And the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that events involving transportation incidents account for the largest share of workplace fatalities, most of them in long-distance trucking.

OSHA’s 5 Main Trucking Hazards and Suggested Preventions

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is aware of the statistics and has identified the most commonly reported safety and health hazards along with suggested solutions. We’ve listed them below including some of the most popularly requested PPE.

1. Overexertion/fatigue

Reaction times, awareness, and decision-making abilities fall by as much as 50 percent when someone is sleep-deprived.

Long work hours may also increase the risk of injuries and accidents and contribute to poor health and overall worker fatigue. Support and intervention are essential to combat a demanding work schedule and the fatigue that comes with it.

2. Strains and Sprains

Loading or unloading a truck or lifting heavy boxes, bins, garbage cans, etc., can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) of the neck, back, and upper extremities.

Many industries have successfully implemented ergonomic interventions that include modifying existing equipment, changing work practices, and purchasing new tools or other devices to assist.

Caption: Along with efficient processes, the DuraWear™ back support belt can offer ergonomic assistance to workers lifting heavy objects.

3. Slips, Trips, and Falls 

Falling from the cab of a truck, falling on stairs, or into other worksite openings are possible reasons for workplace injury for truckers. Setting in place controls is the first suggested action.

Keep in mind these types of accidents can be significant. Safety boots are an excellent idea to have in the truck cab for workers to use at job sites too.

Caption: The Durawear™ yellow rubber slush boots are perfect for an over the shoe option for your workers. They’re fabric lined with a bar-tread outsole that offers excellent slip resistance.

4. Getting Struck By or Against Objects

Being struck or pushed against objects may happen when a driver opens containers, hitches, or attaches trailers to trucks.

OSHA mandates that employers enforce head protection for workers who may be at risk for head injuries. Hard hats are also often necessary and sometimes required at delivery sites.

Caption: The DuraShell™ cap style hard hat comes in assorted colors with a low profile design and easily adjustable suspension for a comfortable fit. Meets ANSI Z89.1 Standard Type 1, Class C, G, E.

5. Transportation accidents  

More than half of fatalities for truck drivers are caused by vehicle-related injuries inside or outside the cab. Proactive employer policy can do much to promote vehicle safety on and off the job.

The OSHA manual stresses the importance of being seen on the job site for just this reason. A hi-vis vest means a worker is less likely to be involved in an accident during the day or night or even inside around people operating moving machinery.

Caption: A HiVizGard™ Class 2 all mesh vest will ensure visibility with its 2” wide silver retro-reflective stripes and bright yellow color. It’s easy to wear with a zipper front closure and plenty of pockets.

Other Frequently Used Protective Equipment in the Trucking Industry:

Work Gloves

From loading freight to hooking up a trailer, truck drivers need hand protection. Safety gloves that are specially designed for flexible coverage are a good choice.

Caption: A pair of Insulated Grain Cowhide Drivers Gloves will protect a worker’s hands in and out of the cab. They are 3M® Thinsulate® lined with a keystone thumb, providing flexibility and giving it an ergonomic design.

Safety Glasses

Protecting a workers’ eyes is something often overlooked, but because the environment at any destination may be unknown, it’s a good idea to be prepared.

Caption: Sporty, semi-frame, and lightweight, the iNOX™ ROADSTER II™ safety glasses meet or exceed the ANSI Z87.1-2015 standard requirements.

Hearing Protection

Another overlooked precaution, hearing protection, is essential when around loud machinery or other tractor-trailers. The disposable styrofoam ones work well and are easy to travel with.

Caption: The DuraPlugs™ disposable foam earplugs are super soft and have easy insertion and removal with a noise reduction rating of 32dB. One size fits all.

Available Information and Resources

Truckers are an integral part of the movement of materials between air, land, and sea. It’s every safety manager’s job to ensure that their drivers stay as safe as possible through it all.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) provides links to the primary safety sites within the DOT that can help address any health and safety issues in each area.

Air

  • Safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) develops and implements tools and processes to facilitate more effective use of safety data, both inside and outside the agency, to help improve aviation safety.

Land

  • Reducing Highway Fatalities. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reports on the national fatality and injury rates every year.
  • Driving Safety. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides information on distracted driving, driver education, and occupant protection among other topics.
  • Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) makes available railroad safety information, including accidents and incidents, inspections, and highway-rail crossing data.

Sea

  • Marine Safety Center works directly with the marine industry in the development of safety standards and policies, response to maritime casualties.

Improving worker safety

Taking a closer look at commercial trucking means addressing the disproportionate number of workplace injuries and fatalities that occur. Keeping those workers safe is a critical component to keeping it running.

Identifying the risks, putting the appropriate strategies in place, and using the recommended PPE will help the workers in the commercial trucking sector and help keep our economy moving forward.

When it comes time to find the best selection of PPE, whatever type of fleet you are in charge of keeping safe, Liberty Glove and Safety can help. Contact us to learn more about our line of personal protective equipment.

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Three Winter Construction Worksite Risks and What Experts Say Keeps Worker Safe

Safety hazards at construction sites are present all year round, but wintertime can bring in seriously dangerous working conditions. With lower temperatures and bad weather, the risk of cold-related accidents and injuries is at an all-time high.

Three big weather risks are most often identified with winter construction worksites. They include:

  1. Cold Stress Illnesses
  2. Icy Slip, Trip, and Fall Risks
  3. Work Zone Traffic Dangers

Below we’ll look at what each risk includes and what industry experts say are the most successful ways of protecting workers from these wintertime hazards.

1.   Cold Stress Illnesses

There’s no doubt that cold outdoor environments can endanger workers. But, it’s actually more than just the cold. You can blame it on the wind too. As the wind speed increases, it causes the air temperature to feel even colder.

Wet weather is another concerning element in the mix, said Brenda Jacklitsch, a health scientist at the National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH), in her article for the CDC website. She pointed out that a combination of all three elements: low temperature, wind speed, and wet conditions can lead to illness even at moderate temperatures as the diagram below shows.

Exposure to these conditions causes skin temperatures to drop and, in time, the body’s core temperature to drop below the healthy average of 37°C. When the body is unable to warm itself, severe cold-related illnesses referred to as cold stress could occur.

“What may be common knowledge for one person—say someone who grew up with cold weather conditions—may be new information for someone who has never before experienced snow, ice, or falling temperatures. There is also a lot of misinformation, so by spending a little time providing accurate information to all workers, injuries and illness may be prevented.”

 

 

– Brenda Jacklitsch, Health Scientist at NIOSH

For more information on cold stress illnesses like hypothermia, frostbite, trench foot, and chilblains, including symptoms and first aid, visit the NIOSH topic page on Cold Stress.

Preventing Cold Stress Illnesses

Worksite regulations specifically target cold stress because it can cause serious physical harm or even death to workers.

The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) developed the “Work/Warm-up Schedule for a 4-hour shift.” It takes both air temperature and wind speed into account to provide recommendations on scheduling work breaks and ceasing non-emergency work.

Work/Warm-up Schedule for a 4-Hour Shift

When cold environments cannot be avoided, workers should follow the 4-hour shift schedule. NIOSH also advises moving into warm locations during work breaks and limiting the amount of time outside on extremely cold days.

They recommend workers should also carry cold-weather gear, such as extra socks, gloves, hats, jackets, blankets, a change of clothes, and a thermos of hot liquid. And first aid kits should have a thermometer and chemical hot packs.

Finally, NIOSH suggests workers exercise the following behaviors to keep safe:

  • Avoid touching cold metal surfaces with bare skin
  • Monitor your physical condition and that of your coworkers
  • Dress for the conditions, including personal protective equipment (PPE)

PPE for cold work environments

Typically, PPE is considered the last line of defense for worker protections. However, when it comes to the cold weather in outdoor environments, clothing and PPE play a significant role. Important safeguards from worker PPE should include insulating layers of warm material, wind-chill protection, and protective covering for wet/rainy conditions.

Employers must provide PPE when required by OSHA standards to protect workers’ safety and health. But, there is actually no official OSHA requirement for employers to provide workers with ordinary clothing or other items used solely for protection from the weather (29 CFR 1910.132(h)(4)).

Despite that, many employers provide their workers with winter weather gear such as winter coats/jackets and gloves.

For another article in Safety and Health Magazine Jacklitsch warns that finding a balance between what you’re wearing and the type of job you’re doing is critical.

“You need to be aware that having extra PPE on may restrict some of your movements, so you need to be more careful.”

NIOSH tips on wearing protective clothing safely

●       Wear several layers of loose clothing. Layering provides better insulation.

●       Avoid tight clothing because it reduces blood circulation. Warmblood needs to be circulated to the extremities.

●       When choosing clothing, be aware that some clothing may restrict movement resulting in a hazardous situation.

●       Make sure to protect the ears in freezing weather.

●       Boots should be waterproof and insulated.

Caption: It’s important to keep your feet dry and warm outside in the winter months. The Durawear 5-buckle Arctic boot can do the trick and the sole helps prevent slips.

●       Wear a hat; it will keep your whole body warmer. (Hats reduce the amount of body heat that escapes from your head.)

●       Use an insulated coat/jacket (water-resistant if necessary)

Caption: Staying warm, and dry is critical. The Class 3 insulated black bottom bomber jacket is just what you need to stay seen on a winter construction site.

●       Cover face and mouth (if needed) with knit mask

●       Protect hands with insulated gloves (water resistant if necessary)

Caption: Keeping your hands warm and protected from the cold is essential. The Arctic Tuff line of protective gloves provides a thermal, 13-gauge, hi-vis color, nylon shell and black, foam latex, palm coating.

2.   Icy Slip, Trip, and Fall Risks

Even if dressed for the weather, outside workers need to continue to exercise caution. OHSA reports that slips, trips, and falls make up a large part of workplace accidents, and they are the cause of 15 percent of all accidental fatalities.

Even though these accidents can occur any time of the year, the snow and ice of winter make for an increase in hazardous conditions and the risks of serious injury.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in a survey that looked at incident rates from 2008 to 2017, the yearly average was over 20,000 occupational injuries related just to ice, sleet, and snow.

On winter construction sites workers are faced with super slippery surfaces from parking lots, sidewalks, and roads. Often there is not only snow to deal with but layers of ice can be hidden underneath. Its critical workers are prepared.

Preventing weather-related accidents

Because walking on the snow and ice is unavoidable on a winter construction site, OSHA and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) work together to help workers learn how to respond to severe weather hazards.

Together they create and distribute information about wintertime risks including slips, trips and falls along with other dangers that workers may face during and after winter storms, and recommend the following:

3.   Work Zone Traffic Dangers

Yet another danger winter construction workers face is working around moving vehicles. And the winter weather makes that an even more dangerous situation.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) sites 24 percent of weather-related vehicle crashes happen on icy, slushy, or snowy roads. According to that same report, more than 1,300 people are killed on roads under those same conditions every year, and snowfall and sleet cause an additional 900 deaths.

Seventy percent of the nation’s roads are located in snowy regions and the Federal Highway Administration points out that road maintenance issues in these areas are higher due to the increase in snow and ice.

This means road construction must continue even in the winter months, and construction workers will need to work in hazardous winter situations where vehicles are often present.

Work Zone Safety

Because drivers may skid or lose control of their cars more easily when driving on snow and/or ice-covered roads, construction workers being struck by vehicles is a real risk of the job. Workers exposed to vehicular traffic should wear the appropriate high visibility vest at all times so that they can be visible to motorists.

OSHA stresses the importance of properly setting up work zones during the winter months as a way to prevent accidents and recommends:

Work Zone Protections: Various concrete, water, sand, collapsible barriers, crash cushions, and truck-mounted impact absorbers can help limit unauthorized entry by motorists into construction work zones.

Flagging: Flaggers should wear high-visibility clothing with a fluorescent background and made of retroreflective material. This makes workers visible for at least 1,000 feet in any direction. Drivers should be warned with signs that there will be flaggers ahead. Flaggers should use STOP/SLOW paddles, paddles with lights, or flags (only in emergencies).

Lighting: Flagger stations should be well lit. Lighting for workers on foot and equipment operators should be at least five-foot candles or greater. Where available lighting is not sufficient, flares or chemical lighting should be used. Glare should be controlled or eliminated.

Training: Flaggers must be trained/certified and use authorized signaling methods. Driving: Seat belts and rollover protection should be used on equipment and vehicles as the manufacturer recommends.

Learn more at Work Zone Traffic Safety (OSHA QuickCard™) and Highway Work Zones and Signs, Signals, and Barricades (OSHA Safety and Health Topics Page)

Winter construction work requires working smart

In construction, there is no room for error, particularly in the winter when it comes to workplace safety in and around a worksite. However, cold weather doesn’t have to stop productivity. With the correct equipment and by following recommended controls, construction workers can stay safe all year long.

Identifying and minimizing cold-weather risks and ensuring the right gear is available will help keep winter construction workers warm, dry and safe throughout the season.

When it comes time to find the best selection of PPE for those winter months, Liberty Glove and Safety can help. Contact us to learn more about our line of personal protective equipment.

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What Risks Do Workers Face in Food Manufacturing?

What Risks Do Workers Face in Food Manufacturing?

Recent interest in protecting workers from the COVID 19 virus has brought increasing public attention to food manufacturing and the workers in the industry. Although the pandemic continues to be a safety consideration, paying attention to the workers’ general health and safety must also be a priority.

From extreme temperatures to slips and falls, food manufacturing presents many risks to those in it. In this post we’ll take a closer look at those risks and their impact on the food-manufacturing workers by exploring the following:

  • Who are the food manufacturing workers?
  • What hazards do they face?
  • What are some shared risks and how are they minimized?
  • Does the Coronavirus still remain a concern?

Who are the food manufacturing workers?

According to a survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation, the most significant portion of food manufacturing workers are in animal production and processing (38%). The subsequent largest set work is crop production (30%) and then seafood (7%). The rest (25%) are part of other food processing facilities.

That represents about 3.4 million people. Taking care of them has a major impact on their health and happiness and is also critical in maintaining our national food supply.

What hazards do they face?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identify risks within each of the above industries.

Animal Production/processing

There are many serious safety and health hazards in the meatpacking industry. OSHA records hazards that include exposure to high noise levels, dangerous equipment, slippery floors, musculoskeletal disorders, and hazardous chemicals (including ammonia that is used as a refrigerant).

Crop Production (Farmworkers)

According to OSHA, agricultural operations put farmworkers at high risk for fatalities and injuries, work-related lung diseases, noise-induced hearing loss, skin diseases, and certain cancers associated with chemical use and prolonged sun exposure.

Seafood Processing

The CDC reports that seafood processing workers have the highest injury/illness rate of any U.S. maritime workers. Occupational hazards include exposures to biological aerosols containing allergens, microorganisms, and toxins; bacteria and parasites; excessive noise levels; low temperatures; poor ergonomics; and contact with machinery and equipment.

Other Food Manufacturing

An Industry Safety & Hygiene News (ISHN) article, pointed out the importance of upholding safety standards within all of the sectors of the food manufacturing industry. The article stressed that ensuring the workers are looked after and food manufacturing environments are secure is crucial to the overall industry success.

What are some shared risks and how are they minimized?

Each of the mentioned food manufacturing industries shares common risks. Those risks, along with the protective equipment that is often used to minimize them, include:

1. Temperature Extremes

Temperatures play a significant role in a food processing worker’s day. They are often exposed to extreme heat from equipment like ovens, cookers, steamers, and hot water scalders. On the other hand, those workers who work in cold environments face overexposure to low temperatures commonly found in areas that have walk-in freezers, outdoor loading docks, refrigerated trucks, etc.

For cold indoor areas, thermal gloves and hats, earmuffs, and waterproof boots are often used for protecting workers against those temperatures.

For hot indoor environments, OSHA encourages water, rest, and limited exposure as well as treating any heat-related illness quickly.

2. Dangerous Equipment

The tools used in food manufacturing facilities can be hazardous, including equipment like blades, knives, and cutting machines, which put workers at risk of minor to severe injuries often involving the hands. For those workers, wearing cut-resistant gloves is considered critical PPE and can substantially minimize the risks.

Another consideration for those working around food processing equipment is their hair. It’s critical to keep it contained when on the job. Hair can contaminate sanitized surfaces and is a threat to the worker if it gets caught in machinery.

Hair coverings, including hairnets, beard nets, and bouffant caps, are designed to prevent that danger and are required by the FDA

3. High Noise Levels

The noise around many of the machines used in food manufacturing is often at very high levels. Sometimes it is at such a level that it can cause serious adverse effects on the hearing of the workers operating the machines or even just those near them.

Apart from mitigating noise levels, OSHA (in most cases) requires supplying appropriate hearing protection, which may include disposable earplugs or full coverage ear muffs depending on the noise exposure and the chances of hearing loss.

Note that it’s essential to choose the appropriate attenuation level so that alarms and warnings can be heard.

4. Chemical or Biological Exposure

Food processing may, at times, require the use of dangerous biological or chemical substances that could harm those workers who are regularly exposed to them. For example, handling live animals or raw meat (or meat by-products) is a common biological hazard, while sanitizing and cooling food products poses a significant chemical threat.

Coveralls, aprons, goggles, gloves, particulate respirators, and face shields are some of the protections that are necessary to keep workers safe and protect them from the long-term effects of these types of chemical or biological exposures.

5. Slips, Falls, and Trips

Food manufacturing facilities require frequent wash downs. The liquid cleaners needed to keep those surfaces and floors sanitary often create the perfect environment for potential slips or falls.

The last survey by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2019 reported that 4,990 workers in the food industry experienced nonfatal injuries involving days away from work caused by these types of accidents.

According to OSHA, employers should implement a comprehensive safety program to identify hazards leading to slips, trips, falls, and other injuries. Of course, proper PPE should be part of that, including footwear with slip-resistant soles

6. Ergonomic risk factors

Workers in the food processing industry could be susceptible to injuries caused by repetitive motion or lifting heavy objects. Those who want to work without the undue pain it can cause will sometimes turn to ergonomic products that may help stabilize their joints when under stress.

Anti-vibration gloves, back support belts, and knee pads, though not required, are examples of products that may provide ergonomic support and offer a more relaxed way of working.

Does the Coronavirus (COVID-19) still remain a concern?

Outside of the industry risks we’ve mentioned, Covid 19 continues to be a safety concern for all food manufacturers. To help employers determine appropriate precautions, OSHA has prepared a guideline entitled: the Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19.

The guide divides job tasks into four risk exposure levels. Most American food manufacturing workers will likely fall in the lower exposure risk (caution) or medium exposure risk levels. It’s broken down as the following:

Caption:  The Occupational Risk Pyramid shows the four exposure risk levels in the shape of a pyramid to represent the probability distribution of risk.

Very High Exposure Risk

Very high exposure risk jobs are those with high potential for exposure to known or suspected sources of COVID-19 during specific medical, postmortem, or laboratory procedures. Workers in this category include:

  • Healthcare workers (e.g., doctors, nurses, dentists, paramedics, emergency medical technicians)
  • Healthcare or laboratory personnel collecting or handling specimens from known or suspected COVID-19 patients
  • Morgue workers who perform autopsies, on the bodies of people who are known to have, or suspected of having, COVID-19 at the time of their death.

High Exposure Risk

High exposure risk jobs are those with high potential for exposure to known or suspected sources of COVID-19. Workers in this category include:

  • Healthcare delivery and support staff (e.g., doctors, nurses, and other hospital staff who must enter patients’ rooms) exposed to known or suspected COVID-19 patients.
  • Medical transport workers (e.g., ambulance vehicle operators) moving known or suspected COVID-19 patients in enclosed vehicles.
  • Mortuary workers involved in preparing (e.g., for burial or cremation) the bodies of people who are known to have, or suspected of having, COVID-19 at the time of their death.

Medium Exposure Risk

Medium exposure risk jobs include those that require frequent and/or close contact with (i.e., within 6 feet of) people who may be infected with SARS-CoV-2, but who are not known or suspected COVID-19 patients. (e.g., schools, high-population-density work environments, some high-volume retail settings).

Lower Exposure Risk (Caution)

Lower exposure risk (caution) jobs are those that do not require contact with people known to be, or suspected of being, infected with SARS-CoV-2 nor frequent close contact with (i.e., within 6 feet of) the general public. Workers in this category have minimal occupational contact with the public and other coworkers.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises those working in the lower risk category to use face masks or coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who are unaware they have the virus from spreading it to others.

In collaboration with the CDC, the FDA developed a quick reference guide to respirators, masks, or cloth face coverings potentially worn by workers in the Food and Agriculture Sector.

Continuing to Keep Workers Safe

Even with a possible end to the pandemic insight, the success and productiveness of the food manufacturing industry will depend on its commitment to the health and safety of its workers.

Consistently identifying the risks, putting the appropriate controls in place, and using the correct PPE will not only continue to help the workers but will also ensure the success of the industry as a whole.

When it comes time to find the best selection of PPE whatever food manufacturing industry you are in, Liberty Glove and Safety can help. Contact us to learn more about our line of personal protective equipment.

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Branded PPE is Good for Business

If you’re not promoting your company logo on your workers’ PPE, you’re missing out on a fantastic and highly influential branding opportunity. It’s one of the easiest ways to build brand awareness and confidence – both on and off your worksite.

Is it really worth it to brand PPE?

Since it is often the outermost layer of a worker’s attire, for industries required to comply with safety apparel standards, a workers’ PPE serves as its company uniform and what is often noticed first.

It’s an efficient and effective way to stretch your marketing dollars too, but don’t just take our word for it.

A few years back, a marketing research group surveyed 14 major industry groups, ranging from general building contractors to auto repair services. The majority of respondents (67%) found branding their uniforms was a more effective way of increasing their company’s visibility than other popular sources, including the internet, TV, and radio.

Those survey results still hold today. A 2021 McKinsey report concluded companies that improved brand visibility the most increased return on invested capital (ROIC) by about three percentage points more than those whose visibility declined the most.

Branding ideas for essential PPE

Because so many items can be branded these days, employers have choices on what safety apparel they choose to display their logo on. Branding can be done on items like jackets, shirts, and vests. But you can also put logos on most work gloves, hard hats, and safety glasses.

Below, we’ve put together a list of some popular safety apparel that can easily be branded and usually comes in various colors that will complement your business style. These are only a few ideas of what PPE you might want to brand and where to put your logo. We’re open to your suggestions on logo placement and can help you narrow down your choices.

 

1. Elevate your brand awareness with your company logo printed on the back of your vests, jackets, and protective apparel.
You and your company logo will be seen when you wear a hi-vis vest with your brand presented prominently on the back panel. Or you might prefer a small custom logo placed on the front of your PPE – another great option!
Hi-vis jackets offer rain and wind protection and create an excellent opportunity to show company pride with an imprint of your custom logo on the back panel.
Disposable coveralls create the perfect opportunity to get your logo seen and show your company pride. Put your company logo on your disposable protective apparel and increase your visibility. It works well as a giveaway to guests on worksite visits too and makes you look professional as well as compliant.

2. Personalize and keep your workers’ hands safe with branded work gloves.
Traditional leather work gloves offer an excellent canvas for printed logos. It’s also a great place to promote safety awareness by imprinting “watch your hands” on the back of the glove or add your own custom logo to either the back or on the safety cuffs for a personal look that will get your brand noticed.
Cotton canvas gloves are ideal for general purpose work, and with a knit wrist cuff, they stay in place while preventing dirt and debris from getting in. Top it off with your logo printed on the back or cuff at a cost-effective price.
Coated gloves are essential when protecting your hands from abrasions and punctures during the workday. They also present another great opportunity to show off your logo without compromising the glove’s performance.

3. Customize your logo on your favorite brand of hard hats or safety glasses.
What better way to make sure your logo gets noticed than to put it on your hard hat either in the front or on the back – it’s your choice. The customization shouldn’t stop there either. Make sure your hat fits well as there are different designs and added features to ensure it is comfortable and safe on the job too.
Your safety specs may not seem like an obvious choice for a logo, but on the side temples and bottom side lens area are fantastic placement to showcase your branding while keeping your eyes protected and ANSI Z87+ compliant too.

Now that you’ve decided to stand out from the crowd with branded PPE, the next question is what type of printing will work for you and who should you trust to do it?

Choose a straight-forward printing process that suits the PPE

There are two main processes used when it comes to branding workwear: pad printing and silkscreen printing. Both methods create a well-defined image and can produce a variety of colors. But each technique is used specifically for certain types of PPE to get the best results.

PAD PRINTING

Transferring two-dimensional images onto a three-dimensional object is an offset printing process called pad printing. It requires an etched plate and a pad to transpose the image. Pad printing machines utilize three main components to successfully deliver a print to an object: the plate, the ink cup, and the pad.

 

First, an image is etched onto the plate. Then the ink cup holds the ink and slides it across the etched plate. This leaves a tiny amount of ink in the etch.

From there, the pad delivers the ink using a soft silicone material that presses and moves it over the underlayer, where it is pressed again to transfer the image.

SILKSCREEN PRINTING

Screen printing is used to print larger images and is one of the most popular printing techniques used for putting logo designs on a variety of products. In most cases, it is a process used with fabrics and paper, but it can be adapted to suit other materials, including wood, ceramics, and plastics.

As the name suggests, the process involves making a screen and then applying ink to the material. The ink is pushed through small holes in the screen, transferring it to the material underneath.

It takes one screen for each color, and by using several screens, you are able to layer different colors – one on top of each other, creating the details in the provided logo or design.

Trust your brand with a recognized leader in safety

It’s not always easy to get branding right. That’s why it’s essential to work with experienced professionals who can offer advice on fabrics and the dimensions and positioning of your logo and help you achieve any special requirements.

At Liberty Glove and Safety, we recognize the importance of your brand so when we are trusted with providing a custom logo – we treat your logo with respect and make sure you have a quality finish. Our in-house branding experts will recommend the best process for your branded PPE and ensure your custom logo stands out, gets noticed, and increases your brand awareness.

So, if your business would like to add a professional value-added look by printing your custom logo on your PPE – get in touch and find out more about all our options.

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Surviving the Summer: Tips for Outdoor Workers on Staying Cool

It’s that time of year again when hot and humid summer conditions present a unique set of hazards for outdoor workers. Exposure to potentially cancer-causing UV radiation, dehydration, and heat stress, just to name a few, are some of the realities they face.

Industries and the workers most affected by the heat

Climate exposure varies across industries, and not all workers are affected equally. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), companies whose workers are most vulnerable to the stress of the summer climate are those that work in agriculture, construction, utilities, and manufacturing.

Extreme exposure to high temperatures and sun diminishes a person’s ability to carry out their daily tasks and induce heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Therefore, those workers face the risk of heat stress because of how physical their jobs often are.

What happens when your body is overheated?

Heatstroke is a life-threatening situation where the body can’t regulate temperature properly. Experts at the Red Cross point out that painful muscle cramps called “heat cramps” are often the first sign of danger, followed by heat exhaustion then heat stroke.

SOURCE: RedCross.org

Prompt treatment usually prevents heat cramps from progressing to heat exhaustion. However, preventing heat stress in the first place is a better way to go.

Water, Rest and Shade

To help those companies and their employees who work outside in the summer avoid heat illnesses, OSHA developed a heat illness prevention campaign that has been a reliable source for over a decade.

Every year during the summer months, this campaign’s central message strives to communicate that the three most important ways to combat heat-related illness come down to water, rest, and shade. By providing workers with these three things, supervisors can significantly decrease the risk of heat illness.

Water: Drink Plenty of Cool Liquids

It may sound obvious but drinking cool water and other hydrating liquids is crucial when the temperatures rise. Cool liquids help regulate your core body temperature and prevent dehydration.

A word of caution, though – think gradually and not immediately with your temperature adjustment. Avoid ice-cold drinks and go for a mildly cool beverage instead if you’re overheated or working in scorching conditions because your body can go into shock with such a sudden temperature change.

Rest: Maintain a Work/Rest Schedule

Because continuous work in the heat is not advisable, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends a work/rest schedule when exposure to heat and hot environments can’t be avoided.

The schedule is based on the assumption that workers are physically fit, well-rested, fully hydrated, under age 40, and the environment has 30% humidity and perceptible air movement.

Source: NIOSH

Shade: Protection from the Sun

Easy access to shade is one of the best ways to protect workers from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and reduce heat distress. When used with other forms of sun protection, such as protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, shade becomes an even more powerful method of preventing injury.

NIOSH recommends during periods of high heat and high humidity to avoid direct sunlight when possible and take short breaks in the shade to let the body release some of that extra heat.

OSHA has put together a guide to understand how hot it really is even in the shade and also a guide to exertion levels so employers can gauge what precautions to take and when.

SOURCE: OSHA

Wear Cooling Apparel as part of the strategy

There’s no doubt that adding protective clothing makes workers warmer. However, the right cooling products and workplace protocols that protect workers from the sun can provide relief by helping maintain a healthy body temperature when on the job.

Wearing light, breathable clothing that wicks away sweat and keeps you cool should be part of every company’s summertime worker protection strategy. This means personal protective equipment (PPE) that can accommodate workplace hazards and heat stress.

As we said above, when possible, workers should stay out of the sun during the heat of the day. Whenever they are in the sun, they should wear a lightweight full brim hat or a detachable hard hat brim neck shade at all times.

Suitably rated safety glasses with UV protection are also critical. They’re considered essential PPE to protect the eyes from both the sun and any hazards associated with work conditions. Furthermore, cooling apparel such as cooling bandanas and towels will also help prevent heat build-up.

Stay Cool, Stay Safe

For more heat stress management strategies to try when wearing PPE, download the CDC’s complete heat stress program. And for more PPE options that work for the summer, read more on the Liberty, Glove, and Safety blog or call us with your questions.

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The 4 Fundamentals: Hand Safety Tips That’ll Keep Your Hands Safe at Work

Hand injuries are a genuine hazard in any workplace. While manufacturing and industrial facilities see higher rates of hand injuries, any worker in any industry can experience them. Knowing the fundamentals and keeping essential hand safety tips in mind is a great way to protect yourself. After all, the best kind of protection is prevention.

Tip 1:  Be aware of the hand injury risks in your work environment

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, your hands are one of the most common body parts to be injured in the workplace (second only to your back). Being aware of the risks within your workplace environment means you’ll better avoid any harm to yourself or others.

Identify potential hazards by knowing the main risks to look out for:

  1. Personal: Hazards caused by something you might be wearing are considered a personal risk. This could be a watch, ring, clothing, or even ill-fitting personal protective equipment.
  2. Mechanical: A mechanical risk involves some type of moving parts where hands or fingers could be pinched, cut, severed, etc. It could also be a situation where objects could fall and crush the hands or cause other such damage.
  3. Contact: Anything your hands come in contact with, including chemicals, high temperatures, and sharp edges, puts them at risk for injury. Because it involves a multitude of objects and situations, contact hazards cause most workplace mishaps.

Tip 2: Learn about hand safety policies in your workplace

Once you identify the different hazards you may be exposed to during your day, you’ll need to find a way to minimize the risk. Your employer should provide workplace safety training as an important component in knowing what steps to take. Hand safety training should include:

  1. Worker Education – Effective hand safety means having current and readily available documentation for equipment, work protocols, and emergency response. Training should also include learning the procedures for accurate injury reporting.
  2. Equipment Use – Beyond a manual, workers should be shown how to handle equipment they will use and be around. Physical safety guards or other emergency controls should be installed and inspected regularly.
  3. Supportive Staff – It’s essential that you and your co-workers are given the tools to succeed. This involves an administrative staff that supports a workplace culture of safety and helps minimize risks for everyone.

Tip 3: Choose and wear the correct hand protection apparel

OSHA reports that 70% of hand injuries occur when people are not wearing gloves. The same report says that for those workers who wear gloves, 30 percent of them don’t wear the right kind of glove for the task.

When using PPE for your hands, knowing the what, when, and how is particularly important.

  1. What type of glove is best for the work?
  2. When should the glove be used?
  3. How should the glove fit and be maintained?

Of course, the glove can’t work if it isn’t worn. A work environment that encourages glove compliance means:

  • Improved overall hand safety
  • Reduced rate of hand injuries
  • Reduction in costs related to hand injuries

The International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) offers downloadable guides on choosing hand protection. The guides follow the ANSI/ISEA (American National Standard for Performance and Classification) standards for impact and cut-resistant gloves.

Understanding the glove ratings is essential when choosing the correct level of hand protection needed for your workplace.

 

  • Levels A1, A2, A3 offer protection against scrapes.
  • Levels A4, A5, A6 offer protection against injuries for which stitches would be required.
  • Levels A7, A8, A9 offer protection against the most serious injuries.

Buying your gloves from a reputable supplier means you’ll have access to reliable products and customer support that can help you choose the best glove for your needs.

Tip 4: Take personal responsibility to prevent injuries

“You are your last line of defense in safety. It boils down to you.” — Kina Repp, workplace accident survivor and safety and motivational speaker

Kina Repp survived a serious workplace accident that resulted in the loss of not only her hand but her entire left arm. She now presents safety talks to employers and employees. Her message addresses the importance of training, safety procedures, and personal responsibility.

In Kina’s case, lack of experience which caused her to miscalculate the risks involved, was the major contributor to her accident. At the time, Kina also fell into the group that is statistically most at risk for injuries, new hires.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the good news about that statistic is that the longer employees are on the job, the lower the injury rates become.

However, unsafe behavior doesn’t always change because of experience or even as we grow older. Our behavior will only change if how we think, feel, believe, and prioritize our own personal safety changes.

You can show others that you value your personal safety and take responsibility for it at work by:

  1. Getting involved: Make safety a personal thing for you by being active in the overall safety of your company. That means being aware of and helping others avoid dangers. It also means reporting accidents and near-misses, so the company is made aware of any risks.
  2. Committing to learning: Read up on and learn your company’s safety procedures. They were created specifically for your environment to keep you safe. Often, they’ve considered past accidents and injuries so that you can learn from others’ mistakes injury-free!
  3. Displaying safe behavior: We often let those around us set the standards. If we see others not following the rules, it permits us to do the same. It is also true that we can do the opposite and positively influence workplace safety by displaying safer behavior.

A work environment that helps us avoid a hand injury is something we all should expect. But, ultimately, it’s up to us. By practicing these hand safety tips, you’ll not only protect yourself but those around you too.

For more information about hand safety and the gloves that can protect you, contact Liberty Gloves and Safety. Download our catalog and discover more of the PPE products we offer.

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What Type of Seams Provide the Highest Level of Protection?

For demanding environments requiring chemical-resistant protection, it is crucial to wear full personal protective equipment (PPE) with strength and barrier protection in mind. This will include wearing a disposable coverall, chemical resistant gloves with a large cuff, and boots. But how do you hold your gloves and boots in place for full barrier protection?

It is important to keep your PPE in place, and to avoid readjusting, while working in chemical-related environments. That is why DuPont™ has created their DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape that provides the same level of protection as previous DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 fabrics, as seen in their coveralls. DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape provides garment strength with its tight adhesions, and its easy application, repositioning, and removal.

The Importance of Tape in Seams

Seams can help provide garment with additional strength, durability, and hazard protection. However, seams can also potentially be a weak barrier location on the garment. It is critical to select the appropriate seam type for your application based on a hazard risk assessment.

Taped seams and double taped seams provide the highest levels of protection for protective apparel. A taped seam is constructed by applying a compatible material over a sewn seam, which increases the seam strength and improves the barrier protection against heavy liquid splashes. All DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 styles have taped seam options for enhanced protection.

A double taped seam is created by applying compatible material strips to both the inside and outside surfaces of a sewn seam. Double taped seams are used on DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 fully encapsulated Level A suits.

DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape: Providing the Highest Level of Seam Protection

New DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape helps keep your personal protective equipment (PPE) in place while providing the chemical protection properties of DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 garment fabric, including proven chemical permeation holdout against many inorganic acids and bases.

What is DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape Used For?

 DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape is a lightweight, and durable fabric. DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape provides at least 30 minutes of protection against over 40 chemical challenges. DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape is used for light splash protection in a variety of industrial environments, including petroleum refining, pulp and paper manufacturing, food processing, chemical processing, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.

How will DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape Support Gloves and Garments

New DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape helps keep your PPE in place while providing the same level of chemical resistance as DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 fabric. This includes proven chemical permeation holdout against many inorganic acids and bases used in various industrial applications. This flexible, repositionable, and easy-to-use tape helps secure a PPE ensemble at garment closure points, such as at the seams, wrists, and ankles.

Filling a gap in the need for a low-hazard chemical protective tape, DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape provides at least 30 minutes of protection against more than 40 chemical challenges. Other tapes currently used with PPE either make no chemical protection claims, which leave workers at risk of injury, or the tapes used are overqualified for the task at hand, resulting in unnecessary higher PPE costs.

DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape allows you to hold a sleeve over your glove, a pant leg over boot, or keep a closure flap closed – all while providing protection against a variety of inorganic acids and bases, as well as common industrial cleaning agents, like bleach.

Ways to apply to PPE:

  • Attach a sleeve to a glove
  • Cover up open seams, zipper, or storm flap
  • Attach a face piece to a respirator

Industrial applications:

  • Petrochemical refineries
  • Chemical processing
  • General manufacturing
  • Emergency response
  • Painting, coatings, & spray foam
  • Remediation
  • Maintenance

Learn more with this video from Dan Bowen, Technical Specialist at DuPont™.

Video highlights include:

  • Tape tears easily for quick and convenient applications
  • Repositionable once applied
  • Tape’s elasticity enables tight adhesion to help prevent leaks

Featured DuPont™ Products

DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Chemical Garments – highlights include Tyvek® fabric with polyethylene coating. Provides at least 30 minutes of protection against over 40 chemical challenges. Suitable for light splash protection in industrial environments. Applicable in pandemic preparedness activities and include taped seams. Learn more here.

To sum it up, DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape is a new product that helps keep your PPE in place and provide protection from more than 40 chemical challenges. Applicable in various industries, you can use DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape to attach a sleeve to a glove, cover up open seams or zippers, and attach a face piece to a respirator. While seams provide strength in garments, tapes like Tychem® 2000 Tape provide increased strength and barrier protection.

Learn more about DuPont™ Tychem® 2000 Tape at DuPont™ Safe Spec, or at LGS Sales Flyers here.

Liberty Glove and Safety is a proud industrial partner with DuPont™ providing advanced PPE products in the industry, keeping people safe and productive.

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The Best Way to Wear a Face Mask for Work or Play

Because they are designed to help reduce the wearer’s exposure to airborne particles, and unwanted particulates, wearing a face mask helps keep everyone safe in possibly contaminated environments. At Liberty Glove & Safety, we know that no mask will protect you if it doesn’t fit properly. To help you not only choose a suitable mask but also wear it correctly, we’ve put together some information that can help.

Find a mask that fits

Keep in mind that there are many models out there. You don’t have to settle on one that doesn’t sit well on your face or feels uncomfortable. It’s a good idea to practice putting on your mask in a clean area before using it in public or at work.

Whatever mask you choose, it should:

  1. Cover your chin, mouth, and nose
  2. Fit snugly, leaving no gaps
  3. Not impact your vision
  4. Be as comfortable as possible

For best practice, follow the directions provided in the packaging or learn more by checking out our Respiratory Protection Fit and Wear guide here.

Ear loops or head strap?

A face mask with ear loops has some advantages. The ear loops can be more flexible and feel slightly more comfortable when wearing work or recreational headgear.

1891 3-ply Face Masks with Ear Loops Fabric wrapped elastic headbands include an adjustable aluminum nose piece and ear loops for easy wear. Compliant with ASTM F2100-2019 Level Standards, these face masks are applicable in environments with minimal fluid exposure.

1891 3-ply Face Masks with Ear Loops Fabric wrapped elastic headbands include an adjustable aluminum nose piece and ear loops for easy wear. Compliant with ASTM F2100-2019 Level Standards, these face masks are applicable in environments with minimal fluid exposure.

On the other hand, headbands or head straps have a more secure fit that prevents any leakage. But, because of the stretchy nature of the material used, headbands can break when overstretched and are harder to manage with thick hair.

1890 Nuisance Masks with Headband Fabric wrapped elastic headbands also include an adjustable aluminum nose piece but have head straps instead of ear loops for easy wear. Available with one head strap or two head straps (1890D), these face masks are used for protection against minimal fluid exposure and are ideal in non-toxic dust, pollen, mold, and dander environments.

1890 Nuisance Masks with Headband Fabric wrapped elastic headbands also include an adjustable aluminum nose piece but have head straps instead of ear loops for easy wear. Available with one head strap or two head straps (1890D), these face masks are used for protection against minimal fluid exposure and are ideal in non-toxic dust, pollen, mold, and dander environments.

Mask comfort with max protection

Face masks that are more on the heavy-duty side create even more of a barrier for minimal fluid exposure. Particulate respirators, or what you might know better as an N95 face mask, offer fluid resistance and filtration efficiency of 95% per government regulatory standards. We currently provide two N95 particulate respirators to choose from, the 1895N and the 1895NV.

1895N N95 Particulate Respirator with Head Straps NIOSH approved N95 particulate respirators provide a fabric wrapped elastic headband with an adjustable aluminum nose piece bridge and two head straps for maximum protection. These 42CFE Part 84 compliant respirators are tested for fluid resistance and filtration efficiency and are used in environments that require 95 percent filtration.

1895N N95 Particulate Respirator with Head Straps NIOSH approved N95 particulate respirators provide a fabric wrapped elastic headband with an adjustable aluminum nose piece bridge and two head straps for maximum protection. These 42CFE Part 84 compliant respirators are tested for fluid resistance and filtration efficiency and are used in environments that require 95 percent filtration.

1895NV N95 Particulate Respirator with Exhalation Valve and Head Straps NIOSH approved N95 particulate respirators with exhalation valve provide the same features and compliant standards as above and include an exhalation valve for extra comfort in environments with warm temperatures to reduce air build-up.

1895NV N95 Particulate Respirator with Exhalation Valve and Head Straps NIOSH approved N95 particulate respirators with exhalation valve provide the same features and compliant standards as above and include an exhalation valve for extra comfort in environments with warm temperatures to reduce air build-up.

Masking up outside of work

Everyday face masks are still a recommended protection in some situations. Though these types of masks don’t necessarily need to be as heavy-duty as those we wear at work, they still need to meet high performance and protection standards.

When wearing a mask outside of work, remember to:

  1. Wear it over your nose and mouth
  2. Make sure it fits snugly (limit gaps)
  3. Avoid touching it (wash your hands if you do)

Reduce the risk of transferring airborne particles with these Liberty Glove & Safety face masks designed for common use.

1891KD 3-ply Face Masks with Ear Loops for Kids Looking for kid’s size face masks? These fabric wrapped elastic headbands offer the same features and compliance as our adult sizes 1891 face masks but are ideal for kids. Dimensions include: 5.75” x 3.75” and are latex-free. Limited Stock (While Supplies Last)

1891KD 3-ply Face Masks with Ear Loops for Kids Looking for kid’s size face masks? These fabric wrapped elastic headbands offer the same features and compliance as our adult sizes 1891 face masks but are ideal for kids. Dimensions include: 5.75” x 3.75” and are latex-free. Limited Stock (While Supplies Last)

1895KN – 4-ply Face Masks with Ear Loops Fabric wrapped elastic headbands include an adjustable aluminum nose piece and ear loops. These 4-ply face masks soft and comfortable don and doff, and latex-free ear straps.This mask is great at preventing airborne particles from entering through your nose or mout due to the extra layer of fabrich. Limited Stock (While Supplies Last)

1895KN – 4-ply Face Masks with Ear Loops Fabric wrapped elastic headbands include an adjustable aluminum nose piece and ear loops. These 4-ply face masks soft and comfortable don and doff, and latex-free ear straps. This mask is great at preventing airborne particles from entering through your nose or mouth due to the extra layer of fabric. Limited Stock (While Supplies Last)

Note: KN95 Face Masks are not NIOSH approved

Our masks are evolving to suit your needs

Based on decades of experience with PPE, Liberty Glove & Safety continually look for improvements in the face masks we offer. Look for our new line of NIOSH approved particulate respirator masks coming soon in Q2 of 2021.

1895NH N95 Heat Sealed Straps Particulate Respirator with Head Straps Coming soon in our respiratory safety product line, these NIOSH approved N95 particulate respirators provide a fabric wrapped elastic head band with an adjustable aluminum nose piece bridge and two heat-sealed head straps for maximum protection. These 42CFE Part 84 compliant respirators are tested for fluid resistance and filtration efficiency and are used in environments that require 95 percent filtration.

1895NF N95 3-Panel Flat Fold Particulate Respirator with Head Straps Looking for a flat fold respirator for convenient storage? Also coming soon, these NIOSH approved N95 particulate respirators provide a flat-fold fabric wrapped elastic headband with an adjustable aluminum nose piece bridge and two head straps for maximum protection. Providing the same compliance standards as our other particulate respirators, this respirator offers maximum protection and flat-fold convenience.

Moving Safety Forward

Solutions for worker wellness and workplace productivity are a priority for the team at Liberty Glove & Safety. We will continue to offer a wide range of essential PPE such as face masks and particulate respirators aimed at keeping people safe.

Learn more about our respiratory product line here, or contact your LGS sales professional today.

It has been just over a year since the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared coronavirus (SARS -CoV-2) a pandemic. LGS is committed to providing exceptional safety solutions during these unprecedented times. Our team continues to work diligently to serve our customers with excellence. Learn more about Coronavirus at the WHO website here or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website here.

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Hi-Vis Safety Apparel Standard Update (2020) Explained

A new revision to the ANSI and the ISEA issue standards for high visibility safety apparel is now available. ANSI/ISEA stands for American National Standard for High-Visibility Safety Apparel and Headwear. The ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 is the latest update since 2015 and reflects the pace of research and technology in safety equipment.

As a leader in the PPE industry, Liberty Glove and Safety (LGS) recognizes the importance of upholding ANSI/ISEA standards and their revisions. To meet the latest standard updates, we will have a rolling change for all our hi-vis apparel effective Q2 of 2021.

As the PPE industry adopts these new standards, LGS will continue to align our safety products with the latest ANSI/ISEA standards to keep our customers safe.

We’ve laid out a general explanation of some of the more specific changes below, but you can access your free copy of the full ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 report here.

What has changed since the 2015 standard?

The ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 contains significant changes, focusing on the following key elements:

  • Updated Label Markings
  • Single-Use Disposable Coveralls
  • Flame Resistant Protective Clothing
  • Optional Testing for Overall Luminance

New hi-vis garments included

Since 2015, many new garments that are classified as high-visibility safety apparel (HVSA) have been added to the industry. The updated standard took that into account with its Class Definitions.

The type-performance class was retained but now includes type and performance. The “type designation” is based on how the garment is expected to be used. The garment’s “performance class” is based on how much materials are visible and the design attributes that have been used with the garment itself.

Accessories removed as a separate class

The old standards contained criteria for hi-vis accessories; this has been removed because it is now recognized within the type-performance class. Wearers of HVSA are still encouraged and often required to use these accessories. Gloves, hoods, and head coverings are just some of the HVSA accessories that offer increased protection.

New standards for marking and ergonomics were added

Provisions on both general and specific products are now required to be marked on the product itself or the attached labels. The markings must be permanent and durable for the maximum number of washings and include the seven criteria enumerated in the ANSI/ISEA standards.

Updated design standards include an emphasis on ergonomics. Specific configurations were inserted for all the new types of ergonomically designed garments along with their corresponding classes.

Updates to criteria for optional features and testing

  1. Single-Use Disposable Coveralls

The new standards recognized the crucial importance of worker visibility when used in environments where garments can easily be soiled, lessening visibility. New measures were added for single-use disposable coveralls for this reason.

However, this new standard configuration for coveralls still follows the minimum required amounts for material and the color requirements imposed on all HVSA.

There are new requirements regarding the integrity of materials, but these requirements apply only to single-use disposable coveralls. They now require unique markings to make them more distinguishable.

  1. Flame Resistant Protective Clothing

The new standard requires HVSAs to be marked as flame-resistant and tested according to any one of the following specifications or standards: ASTM F1506-19, ASTM F1891-19, ASTM F2302-10, ASTM F 2733-17, NFPA 1977, and NFPA 2112.

While the old standards contained test methods, these methods have been updated closely to follow other tests for material integrity.

  1. Optional Testing for Overall Luminance

Regarding the optional testing method for overall luminance, the new standard provides for ASTM E-1501-99 from 2004, Standard Specification for Nighttime Photometric Performance of Retroreflective Pedestrian Markings for Visibility Enhancement.

In addition to this test, the 2020 standard provides specific settings in which garments must be tested according to ASTM E1501-99. Manufacturers may report test results on an optional basis per the ANSI/ISEA 107 Declaration of Conformity which include:

  • Field view
  • Range of illumination
  • Measurements of luminous intensity
  1. Measuring Nighttime Luminosity

The 2020 standards have inserted a concept for the measurement of a garment’s overall nighttime luminosity. With this concept, an optional language was included so that the manufacturer can test nighttime luminosity according to ASTM E1501-99.

What Does This Mean for LGS apparel?

  1. Current ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 are still acceptable to use. LGS will have a rolling change effective Q2 of 2021.
  2. Single-Use Disposable Coveralls includes requirements regarding the integrity of materials and identification.
  3. Flame Resistant Protective Clothing includes the same test marking requirements.
  4. Overall Luminance will have optional testing for conformity including field view, range of illumination, and measurements of luminance intensity.
  5. Complaint High-Visibility Product Labels will be tested for the number of washings as required but no longer needs to be marked.

New LGS safety vests meet ANSI/ISEA standards

HiVizGard™ garments alert drivers or other vehicle operators of a worker’s presence, especially in low light and dark conditions.

Applicable for general construction, airport workers, warehouse workers, road maintenance, and other industries, our products are engineered with comfort and style without compromising safety.

Gear up with HiVizGard™ as your hi-vis protective apparel solution.

C16015FB

Class 2 Surveyor’s Vest with Black Bottom

  • Solid front and mesh back
  • 2” silver reflective stripes
  • Left and right mic tabs
  • Black bottom to conceal dirt and grime
  • Four outside pockets including clear ID pocket and pen pockets
  • Four inside pockets including hidden back pocket
  • Sizes: S-4XL
  • Available in Orange and Hi-Vis Green
C16016G

Class 2 Engineer Surveyor’s Vest

  • Solid front and mesh back
  • 2” silver reflective stripes with contrasting trim
  • Left and right mic tabs
  • Two grommets
  • Eight outside pockets including clear ID pocket, pen pockets, and spray-can pockets
  • Four inside pockets including hidden back pocket
  • Sizes: S-4XL
C16017F

Class 2 Surveyor’s Vest

  • Solid front and mesh back
  • 2” silver reflective stripes with contrasting trim
  • Left and right mic tabs
  • Six outside pockets including clear ID pocket and pen pockets
  • Two inside pockets
  • Sizes: S-4XL
  • Available in Orange and Hi-Vis Green
C16032GB

Class 2 Surveyor’s Vest

  • Solid front and mesh back
  • 2” silver reflective stripes with contrasting trim
  • Left and right mic tabs
  • Four outside pockets including clear ID pocket and pen pockets
  • Four inside pockets including hidden back pocket
  • Sizes: S-4XL
  • Related: Available in Hi-Vis Green and Orange
  • Related: C16042 – Mesh front and back, Available in Hi-Vis and Orange – Sizes: S-4XL

Now compliant with ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standards, find our full HiVizGard™ Protective Apparel product offering at our Liberty Glove and Safety website here.

Sign-up for our newsletter for exclusive news, offers, and more here.

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Leather Work Gloves 101

leather gloves - blog post image

Have you noticed that leather hand protection is used in sporting events including baseball, car racing, cycling, football, and even handball? The earliest use of leather gloves comes from Formula One car racing in the 1890’s. Today, we use leather gloves in a wide variety of environments from sports to construction, industrial safety, manufacturing, hardware, and more. With this, let’s break down leather work gloves in the PPE industry.

With over 30 years of experience, Liberty Glove and Safety’s competitive advantage is providing a vast selection of leather properties, construction, and qualities. With our long history in hand protection, leather work gloves provide strong and tough material resistant to abrasion, puncture or tear, and heat. Our product offering includes leather drivers gloves, leather palm gloves, double palm gloves, and lined gloves. For additional protection, we also offer mechanic gloves and impact resistant gloves with leather properties. From performance levels to cost savings, these gloves can be used in light to heavy duty working environments. Performance factors are based on leather type, glove construction, and cuff.

Highlighted Features:

  • Standard Full Feature
  • Specialty
  • Insulation
  • ANSI cut level
  • Kevlar® Thread Sewn
  • 3M® Thinsulate® Lined

*LGS offers custom services like pad printing, silk screen printing, vend pack, service hang tags, and more. Elevate your brand identity with custom printed products. Visit libertysafety.com/services to learn more about our custom services today.

The Properties of Leather Work Gloves

Leather work gloves are available in grain and split cowhide, pig, goat, or deerskin leathers. While cowhide is the most popular in the industry, pigskin has higher abrasion resistance, great air circulation qualities and retains its flexibility when wet. Goatskin has an excellent abrasion resistance and high tensile strength; its high lanolin content makes this leather exceptionally soft. Deerskin has the highest density strength of all leathers that offers dexterity as well as softness.

Leather Type

  • Cowhide: most popular, cost effective, abrasion resistant, durable, and heat resistant
  • Pigskin: soft, flexible, does not harden, breathable
  • Deerskin: very soft, flexible, comfortable, and lightweight
  • Goatskin: high tensile strength, abrasion resistant, soft, and flexible
  • Synthetic: weather resistant, comfortable, lightweight

Types of Cuts for Cow Leather

  • Side split: most durable and provides greatest protection because there are fewer scars with weaker fibers
  • Shoulder split: more economical than side split due visible texture differences and less fiber density
  • Belly split: most economical due to its inconsistent texture and appearance

The Construction of Leather Gloves

Driver gloves include slip-on configuration for ease of don and doff and available with a straight, wing or keystone thumb.

See how we construct drivers gloves below:

Leather palm gloves range in full featured safety cuff, knit wrist, or gauntlet cuff for more protection.

Double palm gloves feature reinforced palm area to provide added protection and wear. Kevlar® sewn thread is used on certain styles for additional strength and abrasion resistance on the seams. For additional air circulation, our cotton canvas on the back of leather palm gloves is another popular style.

Lined gloves with jersey, piled or 3M™ Thinsulate™ can be used if the job requires insulation for additional protection from cold weather.

Cuff Construction and Lining Options

  • 2-1/2” Safety Cuff: The most common cuff design, protects the wrist area. Slides on and off easily.
  • 4-1/2” Gauntlet Cuff: This longer cuff offers the same protection as a Safety Cuff, with increased protection to the forearm.
  • Knit Wrist: This design holds the glove in place while preventing debris from entering.

  • Fleece: The most used glove liner, made of napped brushed cotton.
  • 3M™ Thinsulate™: The warmest thin insulation on the market, Thinsulate™ has about 1.5 times more warmth than down feather lining and absorbs less than 1% of its own weight in water allowing it to retain its insulating ability even in damp conditions.
  • Pile: This synthetic wool is popular because of its relatively low cost and realistic similarity to wool.
  • Foam: With the comfort of a fleece layer and an additional two layers of polyester and polyurethane foam, this lining offers the most value for warmth insulation.

*LGS offers a vast range of leather to choose from. Ask your sales professional for leather products that satisfy your needs and budget today. 

Liberty Glove and Safety’s Featured Leather Products

  • 7017Q – Standard Grain Pigskin Drivers Gloves

Looking for more breathable leather work gloves? This glove offers standard grain pigskin leather protection. Unlined with a keystone thumb construction and shirred elastic back. Even when the gloves are exposed to water, pigskin leather keeps its natural softness intact. Looking in purchasing in multiple sizes? Use our color-coded fabric hemmed cuff for easy size identification. 12 pairs per poly bag, and 10 dozen pairs per case. Sizes: XS-2XL

  • 7217 – Standard Grain Pigskin Insulated Drivers Gloves

With extreme weather conditions in mind, this glove offers standard grain pigskin insulated leather protection. With its red fleece lining, it provides extra comfort and warmth protection needed in extreme temperature working environments. This glove’s construction also offers a keystone thumb, shirred elastic back, colored hem, and a rolled cuff. 12 pairs per poly bag, and 10 dozen pairs per case. Sizes: XS-2XL

  • 6237 – Standard Grain Cowhide Drivers Gloves

Not interested in pigskin leather? One up your hand protection with this 100% standard grain cowhide drivers gloves. This durable and great value glove with a red fleece lining, keystone thumb, and shirred elastic back. Offers color-coded fabric hemmed cuffs for easy size identification. 12 pairs per poly bag, and 10 dozen pairs per case. Sizes: XS-2XL

Closing Statement

Liberty Glove and Safety has taken pride in delivering hand protection for the last 30 years. While continuously finding the right solutions to protect our customers in demanding environments, our product offering includes leather drivers gloves, leather palm gloves, and lined gloves. Their performance factors are based on leather types and glove constructions. Reduce workplace hand injuries with LGS leather work gloves as popular choice in hand protection in the PPE industry. LGS offers a wide variety of leather gloves and performance factors or cost savings benefits. With confidence, contact your LGS sales expert and find the best solution for your needs.

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