Article - How Clean are your Work Gloves?
HOW CLEAN ARE YOUR INDUSTRIAL WORK GLOVES?
This is probably something that most people do not ever think about – the cleanliness of work gloves right out of the package. One would assume that since they are packaged and never worn before, that they would be clean. However, don't take that for granted. Many gloves today contain residual chemicals left in the glove from the production process.
The problem has been widespread throughout the world as studies from Germany and Denmark have shown that 35%-45% of the leather gloves tested were positive to Chromium (VI) in levels above the acceptable parts per million guideline for harmful ingredients.
Not only are leather gloves a concern. Polyurethane (PU) gloves may also be affected. One should always check any glove, even if it is from one of the large, well-known manufacturers to make sure the parts per million allowed in the guidelines are being followed.
There are three important elements to consider when choosing suitable gloves: how clean they are when they come out of the packet, the production methods, and the dermatological aspects for continual use.
Oeko-Tex® is the international testing and certification system for textiles, limiting the use of certain chemicals. It has become established as a safety standard throughout the textile manufacturing industry and enables testing to be made for any harmful substances at each stage in the production process. This Oeko-Tex® label is a good indicator of product cleanliness when it is removed from the package.
REACH®, (European Community Regulation) has adopted regulations intended to protect human health and the environment from the risks that can be posed by chemicals. One should inquire from the supplier as to the manufacturer's compliance with these regulations.
As work gloves are going to be on the hands for long periods of time, day in and day out, the dermatological aspect has to be considered. Unfortunately many gloves do contain harmful substances that could damage one's health. It is essential to check to see if the gloves are dermatologically accredited even if the gloves are expensive or from a large manufacturing company.
Workers' safety should be of utmost concern when choosing gloves and other safety equipment. Texas American Safety Company makes every effort to provide only the best, certified materials and products; thus, ensuring confidence in the purchases that are made for employees.