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Emergency Preparedness in the Workplace: Ensuring Safety with Proper PPE

Emergency Preparedness

Emergencies and disasters can strike unexpectedly, posing significant risks to workplace safety and operations. Employers and workers alike must be prepared to respond effectively to these events. Proper planning and proactive measures are crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring a swift and coordinated response.

According to injuryfacts.nsc.org, in 2022, 69,473 weather events resulted in 813 deaths and 1,718 injuries. Equipping your team with the proper PPE can make a significant impact on emergency response and preparedness when disaster strikes.

Understanding Emergency Preparedness

Emergency preparedness involves preemptive actions taken to anticipate, prevent, mitigate, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. These can vary from natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes to human-made incidents like fires, chemical spills, or industrial accidents. A well-structured emergency preparedness plan is essential for safeguarding employees, minimizing disruptions, and facilitating a prompt return to normal operations.

Key Components of Effective Emergency Preparedness

  1. Risk Assessment and Planning: The first step in emergency preparedness is conducting a thorough risk assessment. This process involves identifying potential hazards specific to your workplace, evaluating their likelihood and potential impact, and developing tailored strategies to mitigate these risks. A comprehensive plan should encompass evacuation procedures, sheltering protocols, communication strategies, and provisions for medical assistance.
  2. Emergency Response Team: Designating and training an emergency response team is critical to executing the emergency plan effectively. These individuals are pivotal in coordinating response efforts, ensuring adherence to safety protocols, and guiding employees during emergencies. Regular drills and simulations are essential for reinforcing preparedness and enhancing the team’s proficiency in crisis management.
  3. Communication Protocols: Establishing clear communication channels is paramount during emergencies. Defined protocols ensure that critical information reaches all stakeholders promptly, including employees, emergency responders, and relevant authorities. Implementing emergency notification systems, establishing assembly points, and maintaining updated contact lists are essential components of effective communication strategies.
  4. Accessibility to Emergency Equipment and Resources: Access to essential emergency resources is vital for swift and effective response actions. This includes maintaining well-stocked first aid kits, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, evacuation maps, and appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) tailored to specific hazards. Regular maintenance and inspections ensure the readiness and functionality of these resources.
  5. Training and Education: Educating employees on emergency procedures, potential risks, and the proper use of emergency equipment is crucial for fostering a safety-conscious workplace culture. Regular training sessions reinforce knowledge and skills and instill confidence among employees in responding to emergencies. Psychological first-aid training should also be included to support employees’ mental well-being during and after crises.

The Role of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

During emergencies, PPE plays a pivotal role in safeguarding employees from hazards such as fires, chemical exposures, or falling debris. Ensuring that employees have access to appropriate PPE and are proficient in its use enhances their safety and minimizes the risk of injury or exposure during emergency response activities.

Types of PPE and Their Importance:

  • Flame-Resistant Clothing: In environments prone to fires or explosions, flame-resistant (FR) clothing protects against thermal hazards. These garments come in two styles: Primary Flame-Resistant (FR) and Secondary Flame-Resistant (FR).
    1. Primary FR Garments: Designed to protect against direct and prolonged exposure to flames and thermal hazards.
    2. Secondary FR Garments: Designed to be worn over primary FR garments, responding to fire in a way that doesn’t negatively affect the performance of the primary FR garment when worn together as an ensemble.

To ensure that flame-resistant (FR) clothing offers adequate protection, it’s crucial to choose the appropriate type based on the exposure level and specific work tasks. This involves assessing workplace operations, processes, or environments that may present a flame or thermal hazard.

  • Chemical Protective Clothing: When handling hazardous chemicals or in the event of a chemical spill, appropriate chemical-resistant clothing, such as suits, gloves, and boots made from materials like neoprene or PVC, shields workers from harmful substances. This PPE guards against skin contact and potential absorption of toxic chemicals, reducing the risk of chemical burns or respiratory issues.

To ensure that chemical protective clothing offers adequate protection, it’s crucial to choose the appropriate type based on the exposure level and specific work tasks. This involves assessing workplace operations, processes, or environments that may present a chemical hazard.

  • High-Visibility Safety Apparel: During emergency response operations, visibility is paramount to ensure worker safety, especially in low-light conditions or near moving vehicles. High-visibility safety apparel featuring reflective stripes and fluorescent colors enhances worker visibility, minimizing the risk of accidents and improving coordination among emergency responders.

Learn more about High-Visibility Safety Apparel and the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard here.

  • Head Protection: Helmets or hard hats are essential PPE in environments where falling debris poses a hazard. These protective headgear items absorb impact and prevent head injuries, ensuring workers can perform tasks confidently without fearing head trauma during emergencies.
  • Respiratory Protection: Respiratory protection is critical in environments with airborne contaminants, such as smoke, dust, or chemicals. Respirators equipped with filters provide clean air to workers, protecting their lungs from inhaling harmful particles and gases during emergency response activities.

To ensure that respirators offer adequate protection, it’s crucial to choose the appropriate type based on the exposure level and specific work tasks. This involves assessing workplace operations, processes, or environments that may present a respiratory hazard.

July Product Promo – Protecting Against Emergencies

Gear up your workforce with the proper Emergency Preparedness PPE and ensure their well-being on the job. Explore our July Product Promo featuring workwear essentials to keep your team safe.

Conclusion

Emergency preparedness is not just a regulatory requirement but a proactive strategy supporting organizational resilience and employee well-being. By prioritizing comprehensive planning, continuous training, and access to essential resources, businesses can effectively mitigate risks and enhance their readiness to respond to emergencies.

At Liberty Safety, we are dedicated to supporting your safety initiatives with top-quality PPE solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can help your organization stay prepared and protected in emergencies.

Your safety is our priority. It’s all part of our Freedom in Full Gear Promise!

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Single-Use vs. Reusable Sterile Garments: Reducing Contamination in Cleanrooms

Single-Use vs Reusable Garments

In the highly controlled environments of cleanrooms, human activity can be a significant source of contamination. Workers in these environments typically wear sterile garments, either single-use or reusable. Understanding the implications of the choice of protective apparel is essential for maintaining cleanroom standards and reducing contamination risks.

The Impact of Reusable Garments

Reusable garments are often favored for their cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits. However, their effectiveness can diminish over time due to repeated laundering and sterilization. Each cleaning cycle can alter the physical properties of the garments, potentially compromising their functionality and protective capabilities.

To address these concerns, a study conducted by DuPont examined the performance of reusable cleanroom garments after multiple laundering and gamma radiation (sterilization) cycles. The study aimed to provide insights into how these garments hold up over time and when they should be retired from use.

Study Methodology

DuPont tested two sets of commercially branded reusable coveralls made of woven polyester with carbon fibers for electrostatic decay properties. The garments underwent 30 cycles of laundering and gamma radiation exposure, with tests conducted at various stages to measure changes in their properties.

Key metrics such as particle shedding, air permeability, and tear strength were evaluated to determine how well the garments maintained their protective, durable, and comfortable qualities throughout their lifecycle.

Key Findings

  1. Protection:
    • The primary function of cleanroom garments is to protect against contamination. The study found that particle shedding increased after 25 cycles of laundering and gamma radiation, indicating a decline in the garments’ ability to contain particles.
    • Hydrostatic head tests showed that the fabric’s resistance to water penetration decreased over time, which is critical for garments that protect against incidental aqueous splashes.

2. Durability:

  • Trapezoidal tear strength tests revealed decreased garment durability with increasing laundering and gamma radiation cycles. This decrease in tear strength indicates that the reusable garments become more susceptible over time to physical damage, such as tearing, which can compromise their protective function.

3. Comfort:

  • Air permeability tests indicated increased fabric breathability over time, which might improve worker comfort. However, this came at the cost of reduced barrier performance, highlighting a trade-off between comfort and protection.

Recommendations

Based on the study’s findings, several recommendations were made for the effective use and management of reusable cleanroom garments:

  • Monitor Performance Throughout the Lifecycle: Regularly test garments to ensure they continue to meet protective standards, not just when they are new.
  • Establish End-of-Life Criteria: Develop clear guidelines for when to retire garments based on their performance data, not just their appearance.
  • Consider the Specific Needs of Your Cleanroom: Different environments may require different levels of protection, so tailor your garment monitoring and replacement protocols accordingly.

Conclusion

Choosing between single-use and reusable sterile garments in cleanrooms involves careful consideration of their performance over time. While reusable garments offer economic and environmental benefits, their protective capabilities can degrade with repeated laundering and sterilization cycles. By implementing rigorous testing and monitoring protocols, cleanroom operators can ensure that their garments continue to provide the necessary protection, thereby reducing the risk of contamination.

Please refer to DuPont’s guide To Reuse or Not to Reuse – A Life Cycle Assessment of Reusable Garment Properties for more detailed information and specific data from the DuPont study.

Explore More With Liberty Safety

As your trusted source for PPE from DuPont Personal Protection, we are committed to advancing safety. Explore our comprehensive range of DuPont protective apparel offerings online or connect with one of our expert sales representatives.

Your safety is our priority. It’s all part of our Freedom in Full Gear promise!

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Mastering Heat Stress: Your Guide to Workplace Safety

Mastering Heat Stress

As temperatures rise during the summer months, outdoor workers face escalating challenges and safety risks. According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), heat-related incidents resulted in an average of 38 fatalities annually and approximately 2,700 cases with days away from work from 2011 to 2019 (osha.gov).

These statistics underscore the critical importance of equipping yourself with the essential knowledge about heat stress to safeguard the well-being of workers on the job. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore practical strategies, proactive measures, and effective solutions to help you mitigate the risks of heat-related illnesses and ensure workplace safety in high-temperature work environments.

Understanding Heat Stress

Heat stress occurs when the body’s natural cooling mechanisms are overwhelmed by excessive heat exposure. While the body typically maintains an internal temperature of around 98.6°F (37°C), factors such as hot environments or physical exertion can disrupt this balance. In these conditions, the body may struggle to dissipate heat efficiently, leading to a rise in internal temperature.

Symptoms of heat stress become apparent when the body’s internal temperature exceeds approximately 100.4°F (38°C). At this point, individuals may experience a range of symptoms, including excessive sweating, dehydration, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. If left untreated, heat stress can progress to more severe conditions such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which can pose significant health risks and even be life-threatening. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and proactive in managing their health and safety in high-temperature work environments, as the consequences of neglecting these symptoms can be severe.

Identifying Who’s at Risk

Construction workers are often deemed most susceptible to heat stress, given the unpredictable outdoor temperatures they encounter on job sites. However, heat stress permeates across various industries, impacting workers regardless of whether they work indoors or outdoors.

Numerous sectors face the dangers of heat stress, including:

  • Outdoor industries: Construction, landscaping, agriculture, logging, postal & delivery, fisheries crews, and wildland firefighting.
  • Indoor industries: Warehousing, food processing, foundries, manufacturing, automotive, and more.

These are just a few examples of industries where workers may be at risk of heat stress. It’s important to remember that heat stress can affect workers in any industry, regardless of whether they work indoors or outdoors. Recognizing this broad impact is essential for implementing effective heat stress prevention and response measures across all workspaces.

Tips for Heat Stress Prevention

  1. Hydration: Encourage frequent water breaks to prevent dehydration, even if workers don’t feel thirsty. Electrolyte-rich beverages can help replenish lost fluids and minerals.
  2. Schedule Management: Plan tasks during cooler times of the day and implement shaded rest areas to minimize heat exposure.
  3. Acclimatization: Gradually expose workers to hot environments, allowing their bodies to adapt to the conditions over time.
  4. PPE Selection: Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking PPE that facilitates airflow and heat dissipation without compromising safety.
  5. Training and Education: Provide comprehensive training on heat stress awareness, early symptom recognition, and emergency response protocols to empower workers to protect themselves and their colleagues.

Recognizing Early Signs of Heat Stress

Identifying the early signs of heat-related illnesses is crucial for prompt intervention and preventing more severe conditions. From mild symptoms like heat rash and cramps to more serious issues such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, it’s essential to remain vigilant.

Warning signs like excessive sweating, dizziness, nausea, and weakness should never be overlooked. Instead, they serve as vital cues for immediate action, including rest breaks, staying hydrated, and seeking medical attention if necessary.

Emergency Response

Swift action is imperative in cases of severe heat-related illness. Emergency response protocols prioritize moving affected individuals to a cool, shaded area as quickly as possible. Once there, loosening restrictive clothing and providing fluids, if appropriate, are essential steps to help lower body temperature and prevent further heat-related complications.

Additionally, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical attention, especially if symptoms of heat stroke, such as altered mental status, rapid pulse, and hot, dry skin, are observed. By following these protocols diligently, we can ensure the safety and well-being of workers in high-temperature work environments.

Choosing the Right PPE

Selecting the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for ensuring safety and comfort in hot work environments. Our comprehensive range of Head-to-Toe PPE solutions are designed to meet the unique needs of professionals across diverse industries.

Explore our Summer Catalog for a full range of PPE designed to keep you cool and safe all season long!

🔗 Liberty Safety Summer Catalog

Conclusion

At Liberty Safety, we are committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of workers in hot work environments. Through innovative PPE solutions and expert guidance, we are dedicated to providing the tools and resources necessary to combat heat stress effectively.

By prioritizing prevention, recognizing early warning signs, and implementing proactive measures, we can mitigate risks and create a safer, more productive work environment for all. Together, let’s master heat stress prevention and ensure the protection and well-being of our workforce.

Your safety is our priority. It’s all part of our Freedom in Full Gear promise!

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Building With Safety: Your Guide to Construction Job Site Safety

Construction Job Site Safety

Workers in the construction industry are exposed to significant risks daily, increasing the likelihood of accidents on job sites. The statistics are alarming; according to procore.com, since 2008, the construction industry has experienced more total fatalities than any other sector. 

Furthermore, additional data from procore.com reveals that in 2021 alone, there were 169,200 recorded injuries in the construction industry. In the face of these dangers, gearing up with above-the-shoulder safety products isn’t just a matter of compliance – it’s a crucial investment in worker safety.

Understanding Above-the-Shoulder Products

Above-the-shoulder products mitigate workers’ risks, particularly in high-risk environments like construction sites. This specialized protective gear encompasses a range of items, including eyewear, head protection, bandanas, neck shades, and respirators. Learn more about each type below:

  1. Eye Wear: Eye protection is one of the most crucial above-the-shoulder PPE. Construction sites are filled with flying debris, dust, and other hazards that can cause serious eye injuries. Safety glasses, goggles, and face shields are essential for shielding the eyes from harm.
  2. Head Protection: Hard hats are iconic symbols of construction safety. They protect workers from falling objects, bumps, and electrical hazards. Choosing the correct type of hard hat for your job is crucial to ensure optimal protection and compliance with safety regulations.
  3. Bandanas: Bandanas serve multiple functions as safety gear. Worn around the neck, they protect against dust, sun exposure, and other environmental factors. They can also be worn over the face for added protection. Bandanas also help absorb sweat, improving visibility and comfort on the job site.
  4. Neck Shades: Neck shades are specialized accessories that protect the neck and lower face from sun exposure and other hazards. They offer added comfort and protection, particularly in hot and sunny conditions. Liberty Safety neck shades are available for Hi-Vis Full-Brim and Cap-Style hard hats, and come in chemically treated FR options. 
  5. Respirators: In environments where air quality may be compromised, respirators play a pivotal role in protecting workers from harmful airborne contaminants. Various types are available, including disposable masks and reusable respirators. Selecting the appropriate respirator is essential for ensuring respiratory health and safety on the job.

Construction Safety Week

Construction Safety Week is an annual event that aims to raise awareness about job site safety and foster a culture of safety among workers, contractors, and companies in the construction industry. This year, Construction Safety Week was observed from May 6th – 10th, with each day dedicated to a specific topic and accompanied by toolbox talks:

  • May 6th: Driving Personal Ownership
  • May 7th: Encourage and Welcome New Ideas
  • May 8th: Embracing Every Voice
  • May 9th: Strengthen Our Culture
  • May 10th: Thank You for Using Your Voice

Let’s join hands in spreading awareness for #constructionsafetyweek and enhancing job site safety. Share this post with a friend!

Choosing the Right Above-the-Shoulder PPE for the Job

When selecting the right Above-the-Shoulder PPE for the job site, it’s crucial to assess the work environment and its potential hazards.

For personalized guidance and support, contact a Liberty Safety Representative to connect with one of our product experts and ensure workforce safety.

For more Construction Head-To-Toe PPE, download our Construction Segment Catalog. 

May Product Promo

Elevate workforce safety with our May Product Promo. Explore our selection of Above-the-Shoulder Products designed to elevate safety standards in the workplace.

Conclusion

In alignment with Construction Safety Week, let’s unite to embrace the importance of safety on construction job sites. Investing in high-quality, Above-the-Shoulder products protects workers from injury and fosters a safer, more productive work environment for everyone. 

Your safety is our priority. It’s all part of our freedom in full gear promise.

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Staying Visible: Prioritizing Safety in Hazardous Work Environments

Staying Visible

Working near roadways and heavy machinery poses significant risks to workers, increasing the likelihood of accidents involving moving objects. The statistics are alarming; according to the CDC, roadway construction sites see an average of 123 worker fatalities annually. In 2019 alone, there were 762 fatal crashes resulting in 842 deaths. (ohsonline.com)

Furthermore, data from the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) reveals that 1 in 4 “struck-by” fatalities involve construction workers, more than any other occupation. In the face of these dangers, gearing up with high-visibility safety apparel is essential. It’s not just a piece of clothing; it’s a lifeline that can ensure the well-being of workers on the job.

Understanding High-Visibility Safety Apparel (HVSA)

High-visibility safety apparel (HVSA) is pivotal in mitigating risks for workers, particularly in low-light or dark conditions. This specialized protective gear, including jackets, pants, vests, and sweatshirts, is designed to enhance visibility and reduce the likelihood of accidents. HVSA incorporates reflective and fluorescent materials, making workers more conspicuous to motorists and equipment operators.

Reflective materials, a key component of HVSA, work by redirecting light back to its source. This property makes them particularly effective in low-light conditions, as they bounce back light from headlights or other light sources, making the wearer more visible. On the other hand, fluorescent materials in HVSA rely on bright light, functioning optimally when there is a source of sunlight. Fluorescent HVSA is most effective in bright light conditions.

HVSA is widely used in various work environments, including construction sites, warehouses, maintenance facilities, and traffic zones. Equipping your team with HVSA ensures their safety and well-being amidst hazardous work conditions.

Understanding the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Standard

The American National Standard for High-Visibility Safety Apparel and Accessories (ANSI/ISEA 107-2020) is the latest edition of the industry consensus standard governing High-Visibility Safety Apparel (HVSA) in occupational environments. Since its inception in 1999, this standard has been the authoritative guide for the design, performance, and materials of high-visibility PPE in the United States. It has been codified into the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) regulations, and referenced in other worker protection standards.

ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 maintains a Type-Performance Class designation for garments, with the Type based on the expected use setting and the Performance Class identified by the finished garment’s visible materials and design attributes. Understanding these classifications is vital for ensuring compliance and selecting the appropriate HVSA for specific work environments.

The standard outlines four garment performance classes:

  • Class 1
  • Class 2
  • Class 3
  • Class E

And three Garment Types based on expected Work Environments:

  • Type O (“Off Road”) – Type O HVSA is a performance class 1
  • Type R (“Roadway”) – Type R HVSA may be performance class 2 or 3
  • Type P (“Public Safety/First Responders”) – Type P HVSA may be performance class 2 or 3

The chart below details each garment type and performance class, specifying the minimum areas for background material, retroreflective or combined performance materials, and the minimum reflective material width.

Garment TypePerformance ClassBackground MaterialRetroreflective or Combined Performance MaterialsMinimum Width Reflective Material
Type O Off-road and Non-Roadway UseClass 1217 in²155 in²1 in.
Type R
Roadway and Temporary Traffic Control Zones  		Class 2  775 in²*201 in²1.38 in.
1″ split trim designs
Class 31240 in²**310 in²2 in.
1″ split trim designs
Type P
Emergency and Incident Responders and Law Enforcement Personnel		Class 2  450 in.²201 in²2 in.
1″ split trim designs
Class 3775 in²310 in²2 in.
1″ split trim designs
Supplemental Items
Pants, Overalls, Shorts, Rain Pants and Gaiters		Class E465 in²109 in²2 in.
1″ split trim designs
  *To accommodate small workers, the smallest size offered in Type R, Class 2, may use a minimum of 0.35m² (540 in²) of background material. Subsequent larger sizes must use 0.50 m² (775 in²). **To accommodate small workers, the smallest size offered in Type R, Class 3, may use a minimum of 0.65 m² (1,000 in²) of background material. Subsequent larger sizes must use 0.80 m² (1240 in²).

National Work Zone Awareness Week, Go Orange Day

National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW) is an annual nationwide event that promotes the importance of work zone safety by bringing together the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA), public agencies, national roadway safety organizations, companies, and individuals.

One of the key events during NWZAW is Go Orange Day, which is when individuals wear orange to support work zone safety initiatives. This day raises awareness and honors those impacted by work zone traffic incidents, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and preventative measures. This last Wednesday, the Liberty Safety team was proud to show our support for work zone safety. Join us in raising awareness for #GoOrangeDay and Share this Post with a Friend.

Choosing the Right HVSA for the Job

Selecting the right HVSA involves assessing the work environment and its potential hazards.

The chart above is a general guide to help you determine the appropriate HVSA based on performance class and type. For personalized guidance and support, contact a Liberty Safety Representative to connect with one of our product experts and ensure workforce safety.

April Product Promo

Gear up your workforce with HVSA to ensure their well-being on the job. Explore our April Product Promo featuring workwear essentials to keep your workforce visible and safe.

Conclusion

As we navigate hazardous work environments, prioritizing safety remains paramount. High-visibility safety Apparel (HVSA) is a critical safeguard against accidents and injuries, particularly in settings where visibility is compromised. By adhering to industry standards, commemorating initiatives like Go Orange Day, and investing in quality HVSA, we can foster a culture of safety and protect workers’ well-being.

Your Safety is our priority. It’s all part of our Freedom in Full Gear Promise!

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Mastering Workplace Safety: Your Guide to Puncture-Resistant Work Gloves

Workplace safety is paramount, and equipping your team with the proper PPE is pivotal when preventing common hand injuries such as punctures. These hazards can range from thick wood splinters to fine single-wire strands. 

According to the Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S), 7% of acute hand injuries are attributed to punctures. Additionally, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that punctures incur an average cost of $47,703 per year per incident. Read on to learn more about puncture-resistant work gloves and ensure the safety of your workforce on the job.

What are Puncture Resistant Work Gloves?

Puncture-resistant work gloves are personalized protective equipment (PPE) designed to safeguard against puncture hazards in diverse workplaces. These gloves are constructed with materials that resist penetration from sharp objects, such as nails, shards of glass, metal, and other pointed items.

These gloves are commonly used in construction, manufacturing, automotive, metalworking, and more. It’s important to note that puncture-resistant gloves are distinct from cut-resistant gloves, which are designed to protect against sharp edges and blades rather than puncture threats.

Understanding Puncture Wounds:

A puncture wound is an injury caused by sharp, pointed objects that penetrate the skin and underlying tissues. Unlike cuts or scrapes, puncture wounds are characterized by their deeper and narrower nature. Many cuts and lacerations originate from punctures, underscoring the need to select the correct glove based on the hazards the job presents.

Navigating Industry Standards: Puncture and Needlestick Protection

Manufacturers typically focus on two primary puncture hazards: blunt punctures and needlestick punctures. Both the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the European Standard (EN 388) utilize a similar testing methodology to assess puncture resistance, specifically concerning blunt punctures.

The testing method targets potential puncture threats from larger objects such as nails and staples by using a standardized 4.5mm diameter steel probe featuring a rounded point, moving at a 100mm/min fixed speed. The testing machine records the maximum force exerted on the probe to penetrate the material fully. This test is repeated 12 times on the material to obtain an average measurement. Results are expressed in Newtons and converted into a 1-4 scale for EN388 and a 1-5 scale for ANSI/ISEA 105.

The following chart outlines these puncture resistance levels:

LevelANSI/ISEA 105-2016EN 388:2016
110-19 N20-59 N
220-59 N60-99 N
360-99 N100-149 N
4100-149 N150+ N
5150+ N–

It’s crucial to note that not all puncture threats come in the same shapes or sizes.  A common misconception in the workplace is assuming that a glove with a high puncture level is also rated for needle resistance. To address this, the ASTMF2878-10 standard introduced by ANSI specifically tests for needlestick punctures.

This testing method employs a 25-gauge steel needle moving at a 500 mm/min speed. The testing machine records the maximum force required to penetrate the material, with results given in Newtons and then converted into a 0-5 scale, as illustrated in the chart below:

LevelASTM F2878-10
0< 2 N
1≥ 2 N
2≥ 4 N
3≥ 6 N
4≥ 8 N
5≥ 10 N

Exploring the Different Puncture-Resistant Glove Materials

Not all puncture-resistant gloves are created equal. These gloves can come in various materials depending on your specific needs. Here are some of these materials and their respective benefits and disadvantages.

  1. Leather
    • Leather is a commonly used material in glove manufacturing and is known for its effectiveness in blunt puncture resistance. However, it provides limited defense against needlestick punctures.
  2. Nitrile
    • Disposable nitrile gloves, widely used in medical, dental, and food preparation settings, offer excellent resistance to punctures and abrasions. They are particularly effective for one-time use hand protection.
  3. Metal Mesh
    • Gloves made from metal mesh are effective against both needlestick and blunt punctures. However, they face challenges such as degradation over time, resulting in decreased protection. Additionally, they may not be the most comfortable to wear.
  4. Woven Kevlar®
    • A popular choice in various industries, woven Kevlar® stands out for its excellent puncture and cut resistance. Different weave patterns provide varying levels of protection.
  5. Epoxy Plates
    • Epoxy plates offer high cut and puncture protection levels, creating a multi-layered defense against needlestick and blunt punctures.

Choosing the Right Puncture-Resistant Glove:

Many options are available for puncture-resistant materials. However, it’s important to note that no single material or glove can guarantee protection against all puncture-related hazards. Selecting the right puncture-resistant glove involves considering the task at hand and the potential hazards of the job.

The charts above serve as a general guide to help you make this determination. For personalized guidance and support, reach out to a Liberty Safety representative to get connected to one of our product experts and help ensure workforce safety.

March Product Promo:

Gear up for a safe March with our monthly product promo showcasing items designed to protect your workforce from puncture-related hazards. Explore the features that set these gloves apart. 

➡ View the full promo here

Your Safety is our priority. It’s all part of our Freedom in Full Gear Promise!