5 Signs Your Abrasion Resistant Glove Needs Replacing

When it comes to protecting your hands in tough work environments, an abrasion resistant glove is a must-have. Whether you are in construction, automotive, or manufacturing, these gloves help reduce the risk of hand injuries, which are a common concern in physically demanding environments. However, even the most durable gloves eventually lose their effectiveness over time. But how can you tell when it's time to replace them? In this article, we'll highlight the 5 clues that indicate your gloves are no longer up to the task. Don't wait for an injury to happen - keep reading to find out if your gloves need to be replaced!

1. Visible Wear and Tear on Gloves

• The Clear and Immediate Indicator

The most obvious sign that your abrasion resistant glove is no longer performing as it should is visible wear and tear. Over time, exposure to rough surfaces, machinery, and sharp objects can cause the glove material to degrade. If you notice any damage, whether it's cracks, tears, or thinning areas, it's time to replace them.

When inspecting your gloves, look for:

• Worn-out coating, particularly around high-stress areas like the palms and fingers
• Frayed stitching or holes in the fabric
• Thin or damaged sections where the glove has lost its protective integrity

When gloves start showing visible damage, their ability to provide effective protection against abrasions and impacts diminishes. At NMSafety, we use high-quality materials like 13-gauge nylon, HPPE, and steel fiber to ensure maximum durability, but no glove can last forever. Regularly inspect your gloves to ensure they are still up to the task.

2. Reduced Grip and Dexterity

• Grip Loss = Increased Risk

An abrasion resistant glove is designed not just for protection but also for providing a secure grip. A glove that loses its grip can significantly reduce hand control, which is crucial when handling tools, materials, or equipment. Over time, the coating that gives gloves their grip may wear down, especially if the gloves have been used in oily or wet conditions.

When this happens, workers may experience:

• Difficulty handling tools or materials securely, increasing the risk of accidents
• Increased fatigue due to a lack of proper hand control
• Higher likelihood of injuries from accidental drops or mishandling of materials

At NMSafety, we manufacture gloves with a sandy nitrile coating to ensure an excellent grip even in wet or oily environments. However, when the grip deteriorates, it's time for a new pair to maintain safety and productivity on the job.

3. Decreased Comfort and Fit

• Comfort Is Just as Important as Protection

Comfort is essential in any personal protective gear, including abrasion resistant gloves. If your gloves become too tight, too loose, or lose their flexibility, they can cause discomfort and hinder movement, ultimately affecting the worker's ability to perform tasks efficiently. Uncomfortable gloves can lead to:

• Hand fatigue from improper fit
• Decreased productivity as workers struggle with ill-fitting gloves
• Increased risk of repetitive strain injuries due to poor ergonomics

At NMSafety, we prioritize comfort alongside safety. Our gloves feature customizable Velcro straps for a secure fit and ergonomic padding to reduce hand fatigue. If the gloves no longer offer this comfort or start losing their fit, it's time to replace them.

4. Rise in Hand Injuries

• Gloves Should Protect, Not Fail

One of the most concerning signs that your abrasion resistant glove is due for replacement is a noticeable increase in hand injuries. If workers experience more cuts, abrasions, or bruises while wearing gloves, this could mean the gloves are no longer offering adequate protection.

Possible causes for increased hand injuries may include:

• Loss of reinforcement, especially in high-wear areas like between the thumb and index finger
• Reduced cut resistance, which leaves workers vulnerable to sharp objects
• Deterioration of impact protection, increasing the likelihood of hand injuries

At NMSafety, we design gloves with reinforced areas and high levels of cut resistance to prevent injuries in high-risk environments. If these features begin to fail, it's time to upgrade to a new pair of gloves that provide optimal protection.

5. Odors and Moisture Build-Up

• The Silent Indicator of Wear

While it's not always immediately noticeable, persistent odors or the buildup of moisture inside gloves can indicate that the material is degrading. Over time, gloves absorb sweat and moisture from the hands, which can cause the fabric to break down, leading to unpleasant odors and a reduced lifespan. If gloves are frequently soaked or develop a strong smell despite regular cleaning, it may be time to replace them.

The presence of mold, bacteria, or unpleasant smells can indicate that the glove's material is no longer in optimal condition, which compromises both hygiene and the glove's protective capabilities. At NMSafety, our gloves are designed with moisture-wicking properties to help combat these issues, but eventually, even the best gloves will wear out.

Final Thoughts

Recognizing the 5 signs it's time for a new abrasion resistant glove is crucial for maintaining workplace safety. At NMSafety, we've been producing high-quality safety gloves since 1998, and we specialize in gloves that offer superior impact protection, cut resistance, and comfort for workers across various industries.

If your gloves are showing any of the signs mentioned above, don't wait for an accident to happen. Investing in new gloves can help protect your workers and maintain safety standards. We offer customizable options to fit your specific needs, whether you require gloves for construction, automotive, or steel industries.

Take action now: Contact NMSafety to explore our range of abrasion resistant gloves and find the perfect fit for your business. Ensure that your team stays safe, productive, and comfortable with gloves designed to withstand the toughest environments.