Author: Jenny Ko

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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.

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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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Top 10 Selling Products of 2020

top 10 best sellers lgs

Liberty Glove and Safety (LGS) is a complete head-to-toe safety expert. Committed to providing exceptional safety solutions, we are excited to release our Top 10 Selling Products of 2020. In this list, you will find personal protective equipment (PPE) products that you need to replenish, don’t miss out.

Top 10 Selling Products of 2020

4729SP Coated Seamless Gloves

Our 4729SP Coated Seamless Gloves are one of our most cost-saving solutions in our product line. These gloves have a 10-gauge seamless knit shell with textured latex palm coating and handle protein-based oil applications well. If you are looking for a price point solution, these gloves will have you covered. Available in sizes S-XL.

4779RD A-Grip™ Coated Seamless Gloves

Our 4779RD A-Grip™ Coated Seamless Gloves feature premium to standard latex coatings for palm and finger protection in dry working conditions. Our 4779RD have a textured finish design reducing hand fatigue for improved work performance and are extremely comfortable for prolonged wear. Available in sizes: XS-2XL.

F4600 G-Grip™ Coated Seamless Gloves

Our original F4600 G-Grip™ Coated Seamless Gloves are in such high demand, so we have expanded through the years into a full line of different coating for various types of working environments. These 15-gauge nylon/lycra shell gloves come with micro-foam coating for enhanced breathability and higher abrasion resistance without compromising the grip. Available in sizes: S-2XL

A4938 X-Grip™ Cut Resistant Gloves

Our A4938 X-Grip™ Cut Resistant Gloves are no strangers to the spotlight. These A2 cut level gloves come with a 13-gauge WoolTran™ shell and polyurethane (PU) palm coating. Since the shell has no fiberglass, these gloves do not cause hand irritation. These gloves are ideal for protection against cuts, abrasions, and a range of applications. Available in sizes: XXS-2XL.

F4920RT  Z-Grip™ Cut Resistant Gloves

Our F4920RT  Z-Grip™ Cut Resistant Gloves provide an ANSI A4 cut level, forest green seamless shell with a black micro-foam nitrile palm coating. Superior in comfort, this high tensile strength to weight ratio glove provides abrasion resistance and cut resistance. It also comes with a nitrile coating reinforced thumb crotch. This non-slip, breathable glove is what you need when tackling tough working environments. Available in S-2XL.

C16002QG HiVizGard™ Class 2 Safety Vest

Our C16002QG HiVizGard™ Class 2 Safety Vest is a hi-vis green poly mesh fabric vest with a front zipper closure and one outside pocket. Providing 2” silver reflective stripes horizontally and vertically, this vest provides the high-visibility needed in low light environments. You can also find this safety vest in orange and with a black bottom. Available in S-6XL

1550 Plain Toe PVC Boots

From our DuraWear™ foot protection product line, our 1551 Plain Toe PVC Boots are our most popular over-the sock safety boots preventing injuries from falling objects, slips and falls. These 16” length boots are made of 100% PVC and provide a bar cleat outsole. This non-slip boot is an excellent rain boot in outside working environments. Available in sizes 5-15. Looking for more foot protection coverage? Our 1551 Steel Toe PVC Boots maintain our 1550’s boot construction and adds a steel shank for toe protection. Available in sizes 5-15.

1404 DuraShell™ 4-Point Cap Style Hard Hats

Our 1404 DuraShell™ 4-Point Cap Style Hard Hats are essential in head protection. Available in assorted colors, these ANSI certified hard hats are made from high density polyethylene (HDPU) and provide a low-profile design. With every worker’s comfort in mind, we included interior pillowed pads, height adjustment, and rain trough for around-the-brim protection in hot and/or wet environments. We also have 6-point suspension and full brim hard hats in stock. Additional colors available. One size fits all.

Don’t forget, 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.

1715 i-NOX™ F-I™ Clear Frame and Lenses

Our 1715 i-NOX™ F-I™ Clear Frame and Lenses feature polycarbonate temples and a single-piece wrap around lens. There are many tasks in a work site that can cause eye injuries. These lenses are scratch resistant and keep out debris. All our i-NOX™ safety solutions are ANSI compliant too. Available in many lens, frame, and coating variations. One size fits all.

14310 DuraPlug™ Uncorded Disposable Foam Ear Plugs

Our 14310 DuraPlug™ Uncorded Disposable Foam Ear Plugs are continuously a top hit at LGS. Individually wrapped for easy distribution, these super soft slow-recovery tapered shape ear plugs are the perfect for long wearing comfort. With a noise reduction rating (NPR) of 32 dB, they are also ANSI s3. 19-1974 compliant. Available in one size only.

And there you have it – LGS’ Top 10 Selling Products of 2020. Did you see products you already have? Or did you see some products you didn’t know we had and needed? Remember, Liberty Glove and Safety is a head-to-toe safety expert that is continuously moving safety forward by adding new product to expand our breadth of product lines. In everything we do, we focus on delivering the best services and reliable safety solutions to you. Contact your sales expert today to learn more or visit us on our website www.libertysafety.com.

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Why Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Is Important for Outdoor Workers

Safety is a major concern for outdoor workers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statics (BLS), 2.8 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported by private industry employers in 2018, unchanged from 2017. These accidents occur due to a lack of following safety guidelines. A large portion of these accidents resulted from a lack of required personal protective equipment (PPE) for the related tasks at hand.

BLS indicates that heat stress caused about 2,830 nonfatal occupational illnesses and about 37 work-related deaths. From the summer months of June through September 2015; 33 of the 37 fatal work injuries were caused by exposure to environmental heat. In 2015 alone, Texas and California had the highest number of nonfatal injuries and illnesses with days away from work. Kansas and South Carolina had the highest rates of nonfatal injuries and illnesses from environmental heat.

Workers exposed to cold temperatures are at risk of cold stress. Without the proper personal protective equipment (PPE), cold stress can lead to serious injury. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports cold stress can even be fatal so being aware of the risks and preparing ahead of time is critical to keeping workers safe on the job in cold weather conditions. According to the BLS, in 2017, there were over 20,000 occupational injuries related to ice, sleet, and snow, 14 percent (2,890 cases) of which occurred in New York State.

The purpose of PPE is to ensure that workers, especially those who work in an outdoor environment or places with a high risk of injury, are protected. When actively engaged in work, the symptoms of these conditions may be overlooked. Workers should stay vigilant for the signs of each condition for themselves as well as any others working with them. If any of these symptoms are experienced or observed, it is critical they stop what they are doing and seek the appropriate treatment. Wearing the appropriate PPE in an outdoor environment can reduce heat or cold stress, worker visibility, and other physical related hazards.

OSHA PPE Standards for Outside Workers

OSHA provides a comprehensive framework to ensure that outside workers are well protected against occupational hazards. Employers are required to assess hazard levels in the work environment and evaluate workers’ possible risk exposure. They are also expected to implement safety measures at work and ensure that workers make use of the necessary PPE.

For many employers, the major challenge with complying with OSHA standards is conducting a job hazard analysis. As difficult as this may seem, it is essential in determining the safety precautions to be put in place. To avoid liability for any damage done to outside workers while carrying out a task, employers are expected to be aware of OSHA’s standards. These standards ensure workers are protected and reduce the possible risk in a work environment to a minimum.

Hand Protection for Outside Working Environments

Many outdoor workers mainly expose their hands to various elements that can be hazardous. Hand injuries account for more than 23% of reported workplace injuries, according to the BLS. The facts are 70% of these workplace accident victims were not wearing hand gloves. The other 30% were not wearing the proper gloves to fit the specific application. Although hand injuries are usually not fatal, their cost in terms of treatment and lost man-hours are high and more importantly, can be prevented. According to OSHA, in the US, an injured worker could spend an average of 14 days away from work.

According to the BLS, there were over 143,000 workplace accidents in 2015. Most of these cases would not have occurred if these workers just wore proper hand protection in their workplaces. That is why it is important to continually raise the bar on what it means to value safety. OSHA regulations have also helped direct the most ideal hand protection per application.

Are you looking for hand protection solutions for outside workers?

Equip yourself with the LGS Hand Protection line up!

Gray Polyurethane Palm Coated A4926

A4926 PU coated gloves with ANSI A4 cut level

These 13-gauge high-quality polyurethane palm coated gloves are made with superior comfort without compromising the cut rating. It has been constructed to be durable and ergonomically knitted to prevent hand fatigue. Find out more, click here.

DAYBREAKER XSCEPTER THERMAL LINED IMPACT GLOVES 0928 Premium Cotton Cord Impact Gloves with ARMOTEX® thumb crotch

XScepter™ premium cotton cord impact gloves are well constructed for oil absorption. With TPR impact protection at the back of the hand, fingers, and fingertips. Double-stitched neoprene cuff for extra durability with the pull tab. For more information about this impact gloves, click here.

P GRIP POLYURETHANE PALM COATED

SP4638BK PU-Coated Gloves with a polyester shell

These precision work gloves are made with a 13-gauge and polyurethane palm-coated gloves are perfect for general-purpose applications. It is designed with maximum breathability and high dexterity that makes it extremely comfortable for outside workers. For more information about this product, click here.

DAYBREAKER STRIKER X IMPACT GLOVES0950 Premium Cold Weather Impact Gloves with 3M® Thinsulate® lining

Daybreaker® Striker X™ Impact Gloves is a premium synthetic leather cold-weather impact gloves. It is constructed of 3M® Thinsulate® and Raotex™ waterproof lining, double-stitched neoprene cuff for extra durability with pull tab. TPR at the backhand, fingers, and fingertips, to improve the impact absorption. For more information about these impact gloves, click here.

Clothing Apparel for Outside Working Environments

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report, “The most common event associated with fatal occupational injuries incurred at a road construction site was worker struck by vehicle, mobile equipment. Of the 639 total fatal occupational injuries at road construction sites during the 2003–07period, 305 were due to a worker being struck by a vehicle or mobile equipment.”

The BLS article further reports that more workers are struck and killed by construction equipment (38 percent) than by cars, vans, and tractor-trailers (33 percent). As such, the work zone “runovers” and “backovers” are clearly the greatest hazard to roadway construction workers and, by far, the leading cause of death. High-visibility safety apparel is clothing that can improve worker’s visibility. This includes head to toe safety gear in hi-visibility colors, and under OSHA hi-visibility standards.

Other stresses in outside working environments include cold stress and heat stress. Cold stress occurs when workers are exposed to cold working temperatures. Without the proper personal protective equipment (PPE), cold stress can lead to serious injuries. OSHA reports cold stress can even be fatal, awareness of the risks, and preparing ahead of time is critical to keeping workers safe on the job. Heat stress occurs when there is an exposure to extreme heat or high temperature working environments, and hyperthermia occurs. OSHA has provided some insights that can be helpful to workplace settings; which include: PPE cooling products, shades, canopies, and other mediums that can be used to prevent contact with direct sunlight or extreme exposures to heat.

Are you looking for clothing apparel for outside workers? 

Check out LGS competitive hi-vis apparel and bump caps.

CLASS 2 MOISTURE WICKING T SHIRTC16600G Class 2 Moisture Wicking T-Shirts, available in short or long sleeve

HiVizGard™ moisture-wicking T-shirts are made of a 100% wicking polyester. With two-inch-wide silver retroreflective stripes and an upper outside chest pocket secures small items while working. For more information about this protective clothing, click here.

DURASHELL BASEBALL BUMP CAP

1410 Baseball Bump Caps, available in assorted colors

Durashell™ all-in-one baseball bump cap is a working cap that is best for outside workers. With an inner foam cushion for extended wear and air holes on both sides for ventilation. This one-size-fits-all cap is not ANSI-rated and not suitable for applications that require safety standards for industrial head protection. For more information about this protective cap, click here.

No doubt, working in outside environments comes with higher exposure risks. With the right PPE, employers can ensure the worker’s safety. Depending on the circumstances and potential hazards work environment, Liberty Safety offers a complete PPE product line.

For the full lineup of head to toe personal protective equipment for outdoor workers visit our website here.

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An Overview of Cut Resistant Gloves

Hand injuries account for more than 23% of reported workplace injuries, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The facts are 70% of these workplace accident victims were not wearing hand gloves. The other 30% were not wearing the proper gloves to fit the specific application.

Although hand injuries are usually not fatal, their cost in terms of treatment and lost man-hours are high and more importantly, can be prevented. According to the OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), in the US, an injured worker could spend an average of 14 days away from work.

According to the BLS, there were over 143,000 accidents in 2015. Most of these cases would not have occurred if these workers just wore the proper, cut-resistant gloves in their workplaces. That is why you, as an employee or an employer, must continually raise the bar for yourself on what it means to value safety. Thanks to OSHA’s regulations, this is no longer an issue of choice.

In this blog post, we will discuss what are cut resistant gloves, the ANSI cut rating guide, and the product line-up LGS has to offer to meet these demands.

What Are Cut Resistant Gloves

Cut resistant gloves are a special type of gloves that is engineered to protect a worker from direct contact with sharp edges such as glass, metal, and other applications. The level of cut resistance can be improved by high performance materials like Kevlar® or composite yarns made with combinations of stainless steel, fiberglass, synthetic and high-performance yarns.

Not all Cut-Resistant Gloves Are Created Equal

So how does a worker know what gloves are the right ones to use? The good news is you do not have to guess. The American National Standards Institute provides a simple rating guide to make it easier for you to choose what gloves would be ideal for your specific working conditions.

The ANSI Cut Rating Guide: How to Choose a Cut Resistance Glove

After many ANSI tests, they have come out with the ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 report which classifies gloves into 9 specific cut levels. Each level is based on the weight required to cut through a material. This classification makes it much easier to decide which glove to wear for your work environment.

How Do You Use This Guide?

1. Assess possible risks for the tasks to be performed at your workplace
2. Combine the expected risk with the below cut ratings
3. Decide on a glove that will effectively protect against hand injuries

The table below is a summary of glove performance data as recommended in the ANSI/ISEA 105-2016.

The ANSI Cut Resistance Gloves Selection Criteria

 

The ANSI Cut Resistance Gloves Selection Criteria
  Estimated ‘Cut Through’ Weight (In grams) Recommendations
A1 200 – 499 Not Recommended for Cut Protection
A2 500 – 999 Recommended for Light Cut Hazards
A3 1000 – 1499 Recommended for Light to Medium Cut Hazards
A4 1500- 2199 Recommended for Medium Cut Hazards
A5 2200 – 2999 Recommended for Medium to Heavy Cut Hazards
A6 3000 – 3999 Recommended for Heavy Cut Hazards
A7 4000 – 4999 Recommended for High Cut Hazards
A8 5000 – 5999 Recommended for Very High Cut Hazards
A9 6000+ Extreme Cut Hazards

 

FroGrip® | Seamless Coated Cut Gloves Line-up

LGS is a prominent supplier of essential PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). Featuring our FroGrip® seamless coated or Daybreaker® impact cut gloves, these cut gloves are made from different engineered yarns and coatings to meet the demands of industrial environments. These comfort flex gloves form fit to your hand, have tactile sensitivity, and more breathability for various cut resistant applications. Our Daybreaker® impact cut gloves are performance driven heavy duty work gloves with TPR on fingers and back of hand delivering 360° hand protection. These gloves are perfect for working conditions that require multiple launderings for extended use. All of our highly revered cut-resistant gloves are ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 compliant.

Be sure to check our featured products this month:

FroGrip® | Seamless Coated Cut Gloves

X Grip Gray Polyurethane Palm-Coated a4938A4938 | A2 cut level with HPPE shell and PU palm coating. No fiberglass. Available in sizes: XXS-2XL

Gray Polyurethane Palm Coated A4926
A4926 | A4 cut level with HPPE shell and PU palm (latex free) coating. Available in sizes: XS-2XL

Z Grip Hi Vis Green Seamless Shell 4928HG4928HG | A4 cut level with engineered yarn shell and PU palm coating. No fiberglass. Available in sizes: XS-2XL

Daybreaker® | Impact Cut Gloves

DAYBREAKER Charger II Impact Gloves 09430943 | A6 cut level with engineered yarn shell and sandy foam nitrile palm coating. TPR along fingers and back of hand. Kevlar thumb crotch reinforcement. Available in sizes: M-2XL

DAYBREAKER Retaliator Impact Glove
0929 | A9 cut level with engineered yarn shell and sandy foam nitrile palm coating. TPR along fingers and back of hand. Kevlar thumb crotch reinforcement. Available in sizes: M-2XL

We are genuinely committed to providing exceptional safety solutions for all our customers. Our goal is to ensure our products provide value, consistent quality, and ensure it is compliant to the hand protection standards put forth by OSHA to ensure your hands are safe from serious injuries. Check out our product line of cut-resistant hand safety products or contact us for more information.