When designing gloves for hand protection, it is crucial to adhere to specific standards and regulations to ensure adequate safety for workers. Below are the minimum design requirements for gloves based on ANSI, ISO, and UAE safety regulations:

1. ANSI/ISEA 105 (American National Standards Institute / International Safety Equipment Association)

• General Requirements:
  • Gloves must provide adequate protection against specific hazards such as cuts, punctures, chemical exposure, heat, and electrical hazards.
• Performance Classification:
  • Gloves should be tested and classified according to their protective performance, including:
    • Cut Resistance: Tested using the ASTM F2992 standard, classified on a scale from A1 to A9.
    • Puncture Resistance: Measured in pounds (lb) according to ASTM F1342.
    • Abrasion Resistance: Measured according to ASTM D3389 or ISO 5470, classified on a scale from 1 to 4.
    • Chemical Resistance: Must comply with specific testing methods (e.g., EN374 for European standards) to evaluate resistance to various chemicals.
• Sizing and Fit:
  • Gloves must be available in a range of sizes to ensure a proper fit, allowing dexterity and comfort for the wearer.

2. ISO 21420 (International Organization for Standardization)

• General Requirements:
  • Gloves must be designed to protect the hands from mechanical, thermal, and chemical hazards.
• Mechanical Resistance:
  • Must meet specific performance levels for cut, puncture, abrasion, and tear resistance based on ISO testing methods.
• Chemical Protection:
  • Gloves intended for chemical handling must undergo testing for permeation and degradation, with ratings provided according to ISO 374-1 and ISO 374-5 standards.
• Comfort and Usability:
  • Should provide a comfortable fit and good tactile sensitivity, with ergonomic design considerations for prolonged use.

3. UAE Safety Regulations

• Compliance:
  • Gloves must comply with both ANSI and ISO standards as well as any specific local regulations.
• Specific Hazards:
  • Gloves should be selected based on the specific hazards present in the workplace (e.g., chemicals, sharp objects, heat).
• Marking and Labeling:
  • Must be clearly labeled with the manufacturer’s information, compliance with relevant standards, and care instructions in both Arabic and English.
• Inspection and Maintenance:
  • Users should regularly inspect gloves for wear, damage, or degradation that could compromise protection.
• Training:
  • Employees should receive training on the proper selection, use, and maintenance of gloves for different hazards.

Summary

In summary, when designing gloves for hand protection, ensure compliance with ANSI/ISEA 105, ISO 21420, and UAE safety regulations. Key design requirements include appropriate performance classification for cut, puncture, and abrasion resistance, chemical protection, proper fit and comfort, and clear labeling. Regular inspections and employee training are essential for maintaining the effectiveness of gloves in safeguarding against workplace hazards.