In industrial working environments, hands are exposed to a high level of risk due to direct contact with equipment, machinery, and materials used in production processes. The main mechanical hazards encountered in these environments include abrasion, cutting, tearing, puncture, and impact. Exposure to such physical effects can lead to both short-term injuries and long-term loss of workforce and industrial accidents. Especially for workers in sectors such as metal processing, assembly lines, construction, and maintenance-repair, hand protection becomes a priority that directly affects occupational safety.

Protective gloves developed to prevent these risks are designed and used within the framework of occupational health and safety standards. Gloves differ in terms of criteria such as the type of material they are made of, layer structure, coating properties, and ergonomic design, providing specific protection against various types of hazards. This equipment not only protects worker health but also serves a function that supports the continuity of production processes. Therefore, the selection and use of protective gloves as personal protective equipment is an integral element of the safety policies carried out in workplaces.

EN 388+A1 Standard and Performance Criteria

The performance of protective gloves against mechanical risks is evaluated with the European standard EN 388+A1. This standard tests the following properties of gloves:

• Abrasion Resistance (1-4): The glove's resistance to friction.
• Cut Resistance (1-5): The glove's resistance to sharp objects.
• Tear Resistance (1-4): The glove's resistance to tearing.
• Puncture Resistance (1-4): The glove's resistance to sharp objects.

With the 2016 update of the EN 388+A1 standard, the TDM-100 cut test based on ISO 13997 standard has been added. This test measures the glove's cut resistance more precisely, and the results are expressed with letters from A to F; F represents the highest protection level. In addition, the letter "P" is used for impact protection; this indicates that the glove has been tested for impact and has passed.

Material and Coating Selection

The performance of protective gloves depends on the type of material and coating used. Commonly used materials include:

• Aramid Fibers (e.g., Kevlar): Provide high cut and heat resistance.
• High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE): Offers lightweight and high cut resistance.
• Steel and Glass Fiber: Provides excellent cut and puncture resistance.

Coating types determine the glove's durability and application area:

• Nitrile Coating: Offers good grip and abrasion resistance in oily and wet environments.
• Latex Coating: Provides flexibility and good grip, but its resistance to some chemicals is limited.
• Polyurethane (PU) Coating: Suitable for delicate work with its thin structure, but its abrasion resistance is low.

Coating selection should be made according to the characteristics of the working environment and the types of risks encountered.

^{Protective Gloves Against Mechanical Risks (Generated with Artificial Intelligence)}

Areas of Use

Protective gloves against mechanical risks are used in various sectors:

• Construction and Iron-Steel Industry: Provides protection against cutting and puncture risks.
• Automotive and Assembly Lines: Used in operations requiring precision.
• Glass and Metal Processing: Offers high cut resistance.
• Logistics and Transportation: Resistant to abrasion and tearing risks.

Correct Glove Selection and Use

In the selection of protective gloves, the type of work performed and the specific risks encountered are fundamental determining factors. The material, design, and technical specifications of the glove must be capable of providing adequate protection against mechanical hazards such as cutting, puncture, abrasion, and impact. In addition, user ergonomics, not restricting hand dexterity, and maintaining the level of precision required by the job should also be considered. After selecting the appropriate gloves, it is necessary to wear this equipment correctly, use it in accordance with the rules during work, and check it regularly. Especially for worn, torn, or damaged gloves, their protective function will weaken, so such equipment should be replaced without delay.

Gloves that provide protection against mechanical risks have a central position among occupational health and safety measures. The durability of the glove is directly related to the type of material used and the coating properties. Therefore, employers must not only procure the appropriate model but also ensure the periodic maintenance of the gloves. Cleaning gloves, storing them under appropriate conditions, and maintaining them according to the manufacturer's instructions extend their service life and contribute to maintaining their performance level. The EN 388+A1 standard, set by the European Union, includes a series of tests used to measure the performance of protective gloves against mechanical risks. This standard allows employers to make informed choices by providing a grading of resistance levels against cutting, abrasion, tearing, and puncture.