Hand Protection in the Food Industry

The food sector is multifaceted and work can range from labour-intensive to highly mechanized. Workers perform a variety of tasks from production, processing, packaging, and distribution, to storage and transport. In such a highly diversified industry, it’s not surprising that workers can face many hazards (cuts, extreme temperatures, harsh chemicals, exposure to bacteria and viruses), making the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) essential to keeping workers safe. 

Overall, those working in the food industry are exposed to a much higher rate of non-fatal occupational illness and injuries than workers in other industries – over 60%. Given the variety of jobs in this industry, many tasks require using hands for effective and efficient handling. Keeping this in mind, the correct hand protection should be the first consideration for workers' safety against preventable injuries.

The type of task and the working environment will initially help provide a guide to choosing the correct hand protection but more importantly, the multiple hazards associated with each application must be identified to help workers improve their safety and reduce injury-related costs while ensuring safe food products. Wearing gloves not only helps prevent hand injuries but food contamination as well which is an important aspect of this industry’s hygiene and safety considerations.

Workers preparing fish, meat and poultry will need high cut protection. Hand and arm cut injuries are among the most common type in processing operations, making cut protective gloves a common industry choice. On the other hand, comfortability, dexterity and appropriate grip are also important aspects.

Our new Granberg 504 combine great cut protection (EN 388 Cut Level D) and cold resistance. They can be used as cut-resistant liner gloves with single-use or reusable gloves. They are EN 1186 approved to be used in direct contact with all types of food, including fatty foods.

Most gloves used in the food handling environment are single-use or disposable. Materials range from vinyl to natural rubber latex to nitrile. Our Granberg 624 are one of our most popular gloves, made from high-quality soft nitrile offering great dexterity and reducing hand fatigue, as well as providing optimum grip for both dry and wet applications. They are also resistant to fat, grease and detergents.

Meanwhile, those working in the cleaning and sanitation areas require a different type of protection. In some cases, chemical-resistant gloves are the most appropriate, depending on the solvents they are using, and at a minimum, they should be waterproof. Our Chemstar® by Granberg range is the best choice for comprehensive protection against a range of chemical agents, minimizing risk, exposure and chemical endangerment, both as single-use and reusable gloves.

Here at Granberg, we recognize the food industry’s complex needs, based on a diverse range of tasks and associated hazards corresponding to each application. We are proud to be able to offer appropriate hand protection that can maintain the highest standard of safety for both workers and customers. Get in touch with our team and we will be happy to help you find the best possible hand protection that fits your needs in this industry.