Abstract

In many industrial sectors, workers use protective gloves against mechanical hazards in the presence of contaminants such as oils or greases. This contamination can reduce the resistance of the gloves to mechanical hazards. To evaluate the extent of this phenomenon on cut, puncture and tear resistance properties, the scientists will characterize a range of gloves after their contact with a series of industrial contaminants and will compare the results to measured values on new gloves. They will also examine the effects of glove washing. The tests will be conducted at the École de technologie supérieure. The collected data will be incorporated into a protective glove selection guide being developed, which users can consult on the IRSST’s web site. Recommendations may also be formulated about future research on the phenomenon of degradation of the mechanical properties of protective gloves by industrial contaminants.