The Evolution of Hand Protection: Advancements, Challenges and Future Directions

Hand protection has seen significant advancements in the past five years, driven by the need to reduce hand injuries and enhance worker safety across various industries. With evolving technologies and materials, the landscape of hand protection has transformed, offering better safety plus more comfort, productivity and durability.

The Shift in Cut Resistant Glove Standards

The demand for higher cut resistance in gloves has surged as industries seek more protection for workers. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) have updated their cut resistance standards, prompting manufacturers to develop gloves that meet these rigorous requirements.

General-purpose gloves that had been acceptable in the past are now often replaced by cut protective gloves. The adoption of A2 cut-resistant gloves has increased, providing basic protection against light cuts and abrasions.

In recent years there has also been a significant shift from ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 level A2 to A4 or higher. As industries recognize the need for enhanced safety, A4 cut-resistant gloves have become more prevalent, offering superior protection against more severe hazards.

Advancements in Gauge Technology

One notable advancement in hand protection is the increase in gauge, which often correlates to thinner glove liner material. Traditionally, 13-gauge gloves were most common, providing a balance between protection and dexterity. However, the industry has seen an innovative shift towards higher gauge gloves, from 15 to 21 gauge, which offer enhanced flexibility and tactile sensitivity without compromising safety.

Higher gauge gloves are made using advanced knitting techniques and innovative materials, resulting in options that are thinner, more comfortable, and provide better dexterity. These gloves are ideal for tasks that require precision and fine motor skills, allowing workers to perform duties without restriction.

Enhanced Productivity and Durability

Modern hand protection solutions are designed with productivity and durability in mind. One advancement is the integration of touchscreen compatibility into gloves. With the increasing use of electronics on the jobsite, gloves that allow workers to operate these devices without removing them have become essential. This feature enhances productivity and reduces the risk of hand injuries caused by constant glove removal.

The reinforcement of the thumb crotch area, a region that is prone to wear and tear due to repetitive movements and stress is a critical component of a glove’s construction. Reinforcing the thumb with durable materials increases the glove’s lifespan and provides additional protection against abrasion and premature degradation. This feature is particularly important in industries that require frequent use of tools and machinery.

Challenges with Alternative Cut-Resistant Gloves

While advancements in hand protection have brought about numerous benefits, challenges remain with lower cost options. These gloves often compromise on quality to reduce costs, posing several issues for users:

• Poorly Encapsulated Fibers: over time, harsh fibers like glass and steel can become exposed and cause skin irritation and discomfort, leading to decreased PPE compliance and increased risk of injuries as workers are less likely to wear these gloves

• Silicone Coatings: silicone is often used as an affordable means to enhance grip, providing better control and reducing the risk of slips and accidents; however, the use of silicone can be problematic in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and electronics assembly where there is risk of contamination

• Cost Per Pair vs Cost Per Wear: while similar gloves from other manufacturers may have a lower upfront cost, their durability and lifespan are often compromised, leading to a higher long-term cost due to frequent replacement

A Benchmark in Hand Protection Innovation

Among the leading advancements in hand protection is the ATG® MaxiCut®Ultra™ coated seamless knit cut protective gloves. These gloves have set the benchmark in cut resistant work gloves by providing ultimate protection, superior comfort, and advanced fiber technologies to meet the demands of the modern workplace.

MaxiCut® Ultra™ gloves incorporate several proprietary technologies that enhance safety, comfort, and durability, leading to a higher rate of wearer acceptability on the job:

• CUTtech®: integrates high-performance fibers and yarns to deliver exceptional cut protection ranging from ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 A4 toA6, without compromising flexibility or dexterity

• AIRTech®: ensures 360-degree breathability, keeping hands cool and dry even during extended use; and works in conjunction with the gloves’ 15-gauge liner, offering a snug fit and excellent tactile sensitivity

• DURATech®: enhances durability by reinforcing high-wear areas, such as the thumb crotch, extending the lifespan and making them a cost-effective solution

• ERGOTech®: designed to mimic the “hand at rest” position, significantly reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use

• GRIPTech®: provides a secure MicroFoam nitrile coating finish that improves control and maximizes grip for a variety of environments

Beyond these advanced features, the MaxiCut® Ultra™ gloves are dermatologically accredited by the Skin Health Alliance and OEKO-Tex® certified, ensuring they are safe and comfortable for prolonged use. These certifications guarantee that the gloves are free from harmful substances and do not cause skin irritation, promoting higher usage among workers. Additionally, the gloves are silicone free, enhancing compliance in industries that have strict standards and regulations regarding contamination.

With these cutting-edge technologies and certifications, the MaxiCut® Ultra™ gloves deliver a comprehensive hand protection solution that meets the highest standards of safety and performance.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Hand Protection

The landscape of hand protection has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past five years, reflecting the industry’s commitment to enhanced safety, convenience and durability. As cut resistance standards evolve and gauge technologies advance, gloves are becoming increasingly specialized to meet diverse needs. While the drive for affordability presents challenges, particularly with quality and long-term costs, innovations like the ATG® MaxiCut® Ultra™ highlight the potential for integrating cutting-edge features and innovations into practical solutions. As industries continue to prioritize worker safety and productivity, the future of hand protection promises even greater advancements, ensuring that employees are equipped with the best possible tools to perform their tasks safely and efficiently.

To stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of hand protection, it's essential to embrace the latest advancements and choose solutions that prioritize both safety and comfort. Explore how our innovations can enhance your team's performance and safety. Contact us for more insights and to find the right gloves for your unique needs!

This article was originally published in Workplace Material Handling & Safety’s (WMH&S) September 2024 issue.