At Friction Pro, we’re committed to providing you with high-quality work gloves and workwear designed for safety, comfort, and durability. However, to maximize the benefits of these products, it’s important to use them correctly. This guide will walk you through the best practices for using our gloves and workwear in various work environments.

1. Choosing the Right Product

Before using any work gloves or workwear, it’s crucial to select the right product for your specific job. Here’s how to choose:

• Identify the Hazards: Consider the potential hazards in your work environment, such as sharp objects, chemicals, heat, or cold. Choose gloves and workwear that offer protection against these specific risks.
• Check for Certification: Ensure that your gloves and workwear meet relevant safety standards, such as EN 388 for mechanical risks or EN 407 for heat protection.
• Consider Comfort and Fit: Select products that fit well and allow for adequate dexterity and comfort. Ill-fitting gloves can reduce your efficiency and may not provide full protection.

2. Proper Use of Work Gloves

Using work gloves correctly is essential to ensure your hands are protected from potential hazards. Follow these guidelines:

Wearing Your Gloves:

• Inspect Before Use: Always inspect your gloves before each use. Check for signs of wear and tear, such as holes, thinning material, or loose stitching. If the gloves are damaged, replace them immediately.
• Proper Fit: Ensure your gloves fit snugly but are not too tight. Gloves that are too loose can slip off, while gloves that are too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort.
• Donning Gloves: When putting on your gloves, make sure they are fully extended over your wrists, especially if you are working in environments with potential exposure to chemicals or sharp objects.
• Layering: In cold environments, consider layering your gloves. Use a thin, moisture-wicking liner under your main gloves to keep your hands warm and dry.

Using Gloves During Work:

• Grip and Dexterity: Choose gloves that allow you to maintain a good grip and dexterity for the tasks at hand. Avoid gloves that are too bulky for precision work.
• Avoid Cross-Contamination: If you’re handling hazardous materials, avoid touching clean surfaces with contaminated gloves. Remove gloves before touching your face or personal items.
• Breaks: If you’re working for extended periods, take regular breaks to remove your gloves and allow your hands to breathe.

Removing Gloves Safely:

• Peel from the Wrist: To remove gloves without contaminating your hands, start by pinching the glove at the wrist and peeling it off, turning it inside out as you go.
• Dispose Properly: If your gloves have been exposed to hazardous materials, dispose of them in a designated waste container. Do not reuse single-use gloves.
• Wash Hands: After removing gloves, wash your hands thoroughly, especially if you’ve been handling chemicals or other hazardous substances.

3. Proper Use of Workwear

Workwear plays a crucial role in protecting your body from environmental hazards. Here’s how to use it effectively:

Wearing Your Workwear:

• Fit and Comfort: Ensure your workwear fits well. Loose or oversized clothing can become caught in machinery, while too-tight clothing can restrict movement.
• Layering: In cold conditions, layer your workwear to maintain body warmth. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer, and finish with a protective outer layer.
• Securing Clothing: Fasten all buttons, zippers, and closures to prevent exposure to hazards. Tuck in loose ends of clothing and avoid wearing jewelry or accessories that could pose a safety risk.
• Reflective Gear: If you’re working in low-light conditions, wear reflective or high-visibility workwear to ensure you’re seen by others.

Using Workwear During Work:

• Heat and Flame Protection: If you’re working in environments with high heat or open flames, wear flame-resistant workwear. Avoid synthetic materials that can melt when exposed to high temperatures.
• Chemical Protection: For chemical handling, use workwear made from materials resistant to the specific chemicals you’ll be exposed to. Ensure that all openings (sleeves, collars, pant legs) are sealed to prevent contact with the skin.
• Waterproofing: In wet environments, use waterproof or water-resistant workwear to stay dry. This not only keeps you comfortable but also prevents conditions like hypothermia in cold weather.
• Breathability: For hot and humid environments, choose workwear that is breathable to prevent overheating. Look for moisture-wicking materials that help keep you dry.

4. Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care are crucial to extend the life of your work gloves and workwear. Here are some tips:

• Cleaning: Follow the care instructions provided with your products. Clean your workwear regularly to remove dirt, oils, and chemicals that can degrade the material.
• Storage: Store your gloves and workwear in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid leaving them in damp or dirty conditions.
• Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your gear for any signs of wear or damage. Replace items that no longer offer adequate protection.

5. When to Replace Your Gear

No matter how well you care for your work gloves and workwear, they will eventually need to be replaced. Replace your gear when:

• Gloves: There are visible holes, thinning material, or compromised seams. If your gloves are not providing the level of protection they once did, it’s time to get a new pair.
• Workwear: There are tears, holes, or significant wear that could reduce its protective qualities. If the workwear no longer fits properly or has lost its reflective properties, it should be replaced.

Conclusion

Proper use of work gloves and workwear is essential for your safety and comfort on the job. By choosing the right products, using them correctly, and maintaining them properly, you can ensure that they provide the protection you need, day in and day out.

At Friction Pro, we’re dedicated to providing you with the best protective gear available. If you have any questions about using or maintaining your work gloves and workwear, please don’t hesitate to contact us for expert advice.