These days, glove manufacturers have access to higher performing materials and better sewing patterns. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which ones are the best welding gloves for your application?

Welcome to ISHN’s second volume of feature articles and sponsored content relating to workplace hand protection. Safety and health professionals in every industry will benefit from the latest updates and innovations in work gloves. Think about it. Almost everyone uses their hands on the job, especially in manufacturing and construction.

Fortunately, while no regulations or laws require them to do so, top-tier protective glove manufacturers provide comprehensive instruction and training in those how-to disciplines as a matter of course.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 70 percent of workers who experienced hand injuries in 2015 were not wearing gloves. The remaining 30 percent of injured workers wore gloves but the gloves were inadequate, damaged or the wrong type of the hazards that were present.

OSHA requires safety managers to identify work situations in which employees require hand protection but, just as important, specify the proper protection needed.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as work gloves doesn’t immediately spring to mind as a “business enabler” – allowing workers to be more motivated and productive. PPE spend is only one element of investment in health and safety – but it’s an important one.