Evaluation of Functional Fit of Chemical Protective Gloves for Agricultural Workers

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the functional fit of commercially available protective gloves recommended to agricultural workers and to investigate the effect of polymer type, thickness of glove materials, and glove shape on such fit. The study was conducted in two parts. First the hand dimensions of the user population were estimated by conducting an anthropometric survey of 380 agricultural workers. This was followed by a fit evaluation of four test gloves by 38 farmers whose hand dimensions were representative of the user population. Fit was assessed by subjective evaluations of 15 specific hand dimensions for each glove and by conducting two standardized dexterity tests with participants bare-handed and wearing each of the four gloves. Significant differences in fit were found among gloves differing in polymer type, thickness and shape. Thinner gloves made from flexible polymers gave the most acceptable fit. Major design and sizing problems were identified for each of the four gloves. Gloves that fit snugly and enabled participants to complete dexterity tests at a rate comparable to bare hands received the highest subjective fit ratings. To enable agricultural workers to achieve optimum performance while completing fine manipulative tasks, the fit of gloves, especially in the fingers, must be improved.

Ballistic vests for police officers: using clothing comfort theory to analyse personal protective clothing

“…Further, as weight and height increased, comfort was anticipated to decrease, because of a rise in sizing and fitting issues. Previous comfort studies indicated that garment fit and fabric properties influenced wearer comfort (Tremblay-Lutter et al 1996, Wheat and Dickson 1999, Barker 2002, Horridge et al 2002. Therefore, comfort was expected to be significantly impacted by satisfaction with the clothing system as a whole, as well as specific clothing attributes of ballistic vest fit and properties.…”

“…Although this study evaluated ballistic vest fit separately from ballistic vest properties, they are closely related, which may explain why both relationships proved significant. For example, a study of gloves (Tremblay-Lutter et al 1996) identified significant differences in fit based on polymer type, fabric thickness and glove shape. The study also showed that gloves that fit better improved wearer dexterity (mobility).…”

“…Studies have documented the importance of fabric thickness and flexibility (Tremblay-Lutter et al 1996), absorption (Barker 2002) and fibre content (Hogge et al 1988) to wearer comfort in a variety of garment types. Research has established the importance of fit in achieving comfort for gloves (Tremblay-Lutter et al 1996), sports apparel (Wheat and Dickson 1999, Chae 2002, Turk 2002, coveralls ), men's apparel (Hogge et al 1988) and military battle dress uniforms (Schutz et al 2005).…”

Facilitating Students' Integration of Textiles and Clothing Subject Matter Part One: Dimensions of a Model and a Taxonomy

“…Garment shape, along with flexibility and thickness of material, may affect evaluations of fit (and consequently protection) of gloves designed for pesticide application by farm workers (Tremblay-Lutter, Crown, & Rigakis, 1996). Formal qualities of the product may offer a measure of protection from physical harm or may create potential danger.…”

“…The spongy texture of a neoprene wet suit may help a swimmer stay buoyant and regulate body temperature during a triathlon swimming event. Garment shape, along with flexibility and thickness of material, may affect evaluations of fit (and consequently protection) of gloves designed for pesticide application by farm workers (Tremblay-Lutter, Crown, & Rigakis, 1996).…”