VIDEO: The Importance of Hand Ergonomics

In most industrial environments, repetitive manual tasks are an unavoidable daily requirement, with workers performing labor-intensive activities such as lifting or lowering, pushing or pulling and holding or restraining tools and other items. However, simple actions can become hazardous activities, potentially leading to a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

MSDs are generally the result of either gradual wear and tear (triggered by repetition) or sudden strenuous activity or unexpected movement that can threaten productivity in the longer term. Working in cold environments can aggravate conditions further. As a preventative measure to minimize exposure to risk factors of MSD, safety managers can opt for a protective glove style designed for the specific hazard types present and for the functions being performed.

This means considering factors such as:

• Fit. When gloves are too small, movement is compromised. When they are too large, dexterity is restricted. 
• Grip: The amount of grip a glove delivers plays a major role in the amount of muscle effort required to securely handle, hold or manipulate objects. 
• Construction: Material construction and comfort will dictate overall wearability.
• Application-Specific Availability: Wet conditions, contact with abrasive materials, or the use of vibrating machinery, for example, all present differing needs. Each application is unique and should be assessed in its own context to determine the optimal glove choice.

New advances in glove technology deliver superior hand protection while providing much needed support for musculoskeletal health. Ergoform is a technology that enables to design more comfortable hand protection that supports musculoskeletal health during repetitive tasks by measuring the toll of occupational activities, and applying cutting-edge technologies to produce gloves. By electing to supply ergonomically designed protective gloves, employers, managers, and operators can significantly minimize the risk of MSD injury, effectively support safety compliance, and ensure productivity levels remain intact.

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