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Hand protection in the maritime sector
Hands are essential for many human activities, but are particularly vulnerable in the maritime sector. Depending on the statistics, between 15% and 26% of maritime accidents involve the hands. Preventing these accidents requires a risk assessment, recorded in the "Document Unique de Bord". This assessment leads to the implementation of collective protection measures, such as the mechanization of tasks or the installation of safety devices. Where these measures are insufficient, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as gloves, must be supplied to seafarers.
Statistics on accidents at work involving the hands
The data collected between 2012 and 2016 show disparities between maritime sectors:
- Sea fishing: 26% of accidents involve the hands, often during fishing operations (62%). The main causes include cuts/punctures (44%) and shocks/punctures (32%).
- Maritime trade: Hand-related accidents account for 15% of incidents, occurring mainly on the quayside (48%). The main causes are bumps/punctures (33%) and cuts/punctures (30%).
- Sea farming: This sector records the highest rate of work stoppages (78%) due to accidents to the hands, mainly caused by cuts/punctures (40%) and shocks/punctures (29%).
PPE regulations for hands
- Risk assessment: Identification of occupational hazards is mandatory and recorded in the ship's "Document Unique". Collective protection measures are given priority over individual protection.
- Glove compliance : Gloves must comply with European regulations, as evidenced by the CE mark.
- Employer's liability: Employers must supply suitable gloves, inform seafarers of their use and ensure that they are worn in hazardous situations.
Types of protective gloves
Protective gloves are classified according to their material and the risks they cover.
Leather gloves :
- Full-grain: Comfort and precision.
- Split leather: enhanced abrasion resistance.
- Protection: Mechanical, heat and fire hazards.
Synthetic gloves :
- Latex, nitrile, neoprene, PVC compounds, etc.
- Protection: Chemical products, mechanical and electrical hazards.
Textile gloves :
- Uncoated: For work in dry environments, often used as under-gloves.
- Coatings: For improved waterproofing or resistance to abrasion and chemicals.
- Protection: mechanical, chemical, heat and fire hazards.
Understanding standards and pictograms
Gloves bear pictograms indicating their level of protection:
