When working in high-volume injection molding, gloves need to do more than just protect. They must offer grip, all-day comfort, and the tactile sensitivity needed to get the job done right. Without the right PPE, productivity suffers, safety is compromised, and workers are left frustrated. That was exactly the problem faced at this full-service injection molding facility – until they put HexArmor® to the test.
The hidden powerhouse behind major industries
Full-service plastic injection molders produce millions of parts each year across various industries including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and industrial manufacturing. From specialized injection molding to CNC machining and rapid prototyping, their capabilities ensure precision and expertise while supporting high-volume manufacturing needs.
The challenge: Lack of functional PPE slows down production
At this particular facility, die setters play a huge role in ensuring smooth production of plastic-molded components. However, one of their key tasks—finishing the bottom of a crate as it comes out of the mold at 157 degrees Fahrenheit and stacking up to 1,000 oil-coated metal brackets in an 8-hour shift—was proving difficult due to inadequate hand protection.
The previous gloves worn by employees, G-Tek A1 cut gloves, were so uncomfortable due to incorrect fit that workers frequently removed them to complete tasks more efficiently. This created a major safety hazard, as employees were exposing themselves to heat and sharp materials without protection.
When asked about the primary challenge with their old gloves, the die setter shared:
"Functionality—I couldn’t do jack sh** with the old gloves on."
The solution: A game-changing glove
The introduction of the Helix® 3052 gloves with HexAir™ technology changed the way workers looked at safety gloves. These gloves provided:
- Enhanced dexterity without compromising protection
- Superior breathability and comfort, reducing hand fatigue
- Heat resistance, allowing workers to handle hot components with confidence
- Oil-resistant grip, improving control when handling metal brackets
The results: New standards of safety and performance
Images show gloves after 5 days of consecutive wear during 8-hour shifts while handling crate materials at 157 degrees Fahrenheit.
With the Helix® 3052 gloves, employees no longer had to choose between safety and efficiency. The die setter who tested them immediately noticed the difference, stating that "no other glove has allowed them to do their tasks properly." The unmatched comfort and performance led to noticeable workplace morale shifts, with coworkers even expressing jealousy over those who got to wear the HexAir™ gloves.
Most importantly, the gloves encouraged consistent PPE compliance, reducing risk and ensuring protection across all tasks.
After trialing the gloves, the same die-setter was excited to share his experience:
"Your gloves are superior. You can quote me on that. I truly believe that you make the best product for the job."
Looking ahead
While specific injury reduction or cost-saving metrics are not yet available, the immediate impact on safety adherence, operational efficiency, and employee morale speaks volumes. This case reinforces the value of selecting the right PPE for the job and highlights how HexArmor® continues to set the standard for protection without compromise.
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