Glove selection to minimize effort and MSD risk

Author

Richard Wells

Key messages

• Manual work with gloves requires greater effort than the same work without gloves.
• Glove material, thickness, stiffness and friction are key determinants of the effort required
•  Well-fitting gloves are important for getting the best out of a glove
• Ask why a glove is necessary and where possible redesign the task to be done without a glove

Implications for the Prevention of MSD

• The grip force required to perform a task is the primary risk factor for development of MSD of the hand and forearm
• Reducing the effort required of a worker by careful selection of a glove is an appropriate MSD preventive action