Does anyone allow fingerless gloves as PPE in their workplace. I would be keen to know the thought process behind it. I have had the request, but with the dexterity available from some of the modern gloves it seems unnecessary. Am I missing something?
In most instances I find the argument about dexterity is actually just an excuse. Get the guys to put on gloves (good ones) and demonstrate the work - then you will see if it's a genuine issue or a copy out.
If the issue is around wearing gloves near rotating machinery, you can get gloves which have fingers that tear off if they become entangled, to prevent pulling the hand in. Horses for courses - it's important to understand the true demands of the work.
As a hand protection specialist our job in specifying gloves is finding the right product that allows workers to do all their tasks without having to remove their gloves. This is why we stock so many types of gloves so we can suit the product to the environment and hazards to find the "Goldilocks spot" of protection and dexterity. We also work with key users to trial products as the uptake is far greater if the staff are involved in the process. We have new products coming to market all the time. I'm happy to get one of our staff involved in conducting an audit and running trials if you want to make contact with me.
There is a fingertip-less glove available that has the tips of the thumb and first two fingers exposed. This allows for cut protection on the palms and fingers but allows for fine dexterity on the fingertips. Link