Using pliers in assembly work: Short and long task duration effects of gloves on hand performance capabilities and subjective assessments of discomfort and ease of tool manipulation

The present study investigated the effects of wearing typical industrial gloves on hand performance capabilities (muscle activity, wrist posture, touch sensitivity, hand grip and forearm torque strength) and subjective assessments for an extended duration of performing a common assembly task, wire tying with pliers, which requires a combination of manipulation and force exertion. Three commercially available gloves (cotton, nylon and nitrile gloves) were tested and compared with a bare hand condition while participants performed the simulated assembly task for 2 h. The results showed that wearing gloves significantly increased the muscle activity, wrist deviation, and discomfort whilst reducing hand grip strength, forearm torque strength and touch sensitivity. The combined results showed that the length of time for which gloves are worn does affect hand performance capability and that gloves need to be evaluated in a realistic working context. The results are discussed in terms of selection of gloves for industrial assembly tasks involving pliers.

► Wearing gloves increased the muscle activity, wrist deviation and discomfort. ► Gloves reduced hand grip strength, forearm torque strength and touch sensitivity. ► The effects of wearing gloves did change over the work period. ► Bare hand condition was preferable for tasks involving hand grip or torque exertion. ► Bare hand or cotton gloves are recommended for tactile feedback and manipulation.