COVER STORY
Glove design and manufacturing is next, and delegates receive a thorough briefing in the materials and processes used in glove manufacture, and how they differ in terms of grip, breathability, dexterity, as well as resistance to abrasion, puncture, impact, chemicals, cuts, burns and stains. This is a complex area, and delegates learn about the challenges posed by conflicting requirements, for example where people need high dexterity with protection from heavy impacts, and also the problems posed by allergic reactions to materials. They also take part in a grip test, which shows how gloves of similar design and construction can have a surprising difference in grip capabilities.
Returning to legislative requirements, delegates learn how the PPE Directive and EN standards affect glove selection. They are taught how to perform a hand protection assessment and identify which combinations of materials and construction techniques provide protection against different types of hazards. This is supported with practical exercises in which delegates perform a hand protection assessment, learning the best methodology to use so that they will
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be confident in stating hand protection specifications and know when to seek specialist advice.
A tour of the Polyco UKAS accredited testing facilities gives delegates the opportunity to observe EN 388 (coup) and ISO cut tests being conducted as well as seeing the physical, biological and chemical testing facilities.
The final exercise brings everything together. Working in groups, delegates are assigned various real-life scenarios from different workplaces. Their role is to assess the environments, tasks, hazards and risks presented to users who themselves have issues including size, fit and latex allergies. Using the methodology taught, each group reviews the scenario, evaluates the considerations and proposes the correct glove CE category for the purpose, specifying the combination of materials and construction that would best meet the requirements.
THE TEST Finally, delegates are given an assessment test, which allows them to demonstrate what they have learned and to show that they will be able to implement Hand Protection Assessments Surveys (HPAS) and
hand protection policies when they return to work. Successful candidates will receive a certificate approved from IOSH.
Feedback from delegates has been enthusiastic, with many commenting that the day’s combination of practical exercises, laboratory visits and classroom activities gave them an excellent grounding of Hand Protection selection and employer responsibilities. “Dare I say it – it was fun!” said one.
www.polyco.co.uk/hand-protection- assessment-survey
INTERESTED? If you or your colleagues would like to register for the Polyco Assessing Hand Protection Training Course, please send an email with your name and contact details to
hpas@polyco.co.uk. Remember, the course is free. All you need to do is choose what date suits you best; next dates 21st or 29th of July. Courses take place in Enfield. If you are unlucky and don’t secure a place in July, please register your interest with us to be included in the coming months.
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