Ergonomics, Hand Health, and Productivity ROI in Food Processing

In the food manufacturing industry, efficiency and worker safety are mutually dependent goals. While protecting employees from hazards like cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure is mandatory, organizations also recognize that hand protection program successes can be partly measured in their ROI, driven by employee well-being and productivity.

Ansell, a global provider of safety solutions, advocates for prioritizing worker health and productivity through advanced ergonomic design. By viewing comfortable, anatomically-designed gloves not merely as an expense but as a smart business decision, facilities can significantly reduce costly injuries and boost output.

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The true cost of hand fatigue: MSDs and lost productivity

Food processing tasks often involve repetitive motions, cold temperatures, and sustained gripping, which place immense strain on a worker’s hands and wrists. Prioritizing employee well-being is critical for mitigating risks.

A primary focus of ergonomic hand protection is the reduction of hand fatigue and the prevention of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs), such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. When discomfort forces an employee to adjust their grip or slow their pace, quality and consistency suffer. The cost of a single hand injury or an MSD claim far outweighs the investment in an ergonomic glove solution.

Designing for a second-skin fit

Effective ergonomic protection starts with a glove design that minimizes muscle effort while maximizing dexterity. Ansell utilizes specialized technologies to achieve this balance, including concepts like Ergoform™ technology, which targets the reduction of hand fatigue.

A tangible example of this innovation is the HyFlex^® Precision Comfort Series, featuring AEROFIT™ Technology. This technology provides a true second-skin fit for exceptional tactile control and comfort.

Key benefits of adopting precision-comfort gloves include:

• Enhanced tactility: AEROFIT utilizes an innovative, flexible foam nitrile coating that is up to 30% thinner than standard gloves, offering the same level of protection, which delivers superior tactility, sensitivity, and breathability.
• Proven productivity gains: Users wearing the HyFlex 11-574 gloves completed precision tasks up to 42% faster.
• Superior compliance and comfort: 98% of professionals preferred the HyFlex 11-574 for precision handling and all-day wear. Furthermore, the gloves are dermatologically tested and certified by Dermatest™ and OEKO-TEX™, ensuring they are skin-safe.

By improving fit and material composition, manufacturers see a direct positive impact on dexterity, leading to faster, safer, and higher-quality work.

Integrating ergonomics into plant operations

Successfully implementing an ergonomic glove program requires more than just purchasing new products; it demands integration into the plant’s existing quality and safety framework.

That’s why Nelson-Jameson provides a comprehensive range of Ansell PPE and safety products, including those focused on ergonomics, along with support in getting a program started.

In an industry where high-volume processing and precision are essential, investing in ergonomic PPE is a strategic move that delivers tangible benefits by reducing the hidden costs associated with employee injury and fatigue. Ergonomic gloves function as a vital tool that protects both the worker and the bottom line, ensuring that food manufacturers can focus on maintaining proven excellence and trusted food processing expertise.

Nelson-Jameson & Ansell: Your partners in helping protect employees

Nelson-Jameson understands the unique challenges of food manufacturing and is dedicated to helping you create a safer, more compliant workplace. Reach out to get assistance in selecting the right Ansell PPE for your specific plant needs.

Related: Begin your AnsellGUARDIAN^® Hazard Analysis here >