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HAND AND BODY PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS IN AUSTRALIAN MINING

Author headshot ansell
EMAP Marketing Communications Team
Miners wearing yellow hard hats and high-visibility cut-resistant gloves working underground in a mining tunnel.

Mining is one of the most challenging and high-risk industries, exposing workers to sharp tools, falling objects, machinery vibration, extreme temperatures, and chemical hazards. Occupational Skin Disease (OSD) affects up to 51 workers per 100,000*, with contact dermatitis accounting for most cases. Milliaria and Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD) were also observed. ACD is a form of dermatitis or eczema caused by an allergic reaction to a material. Contact dermatitis more broadly refers to skin inflammation that occurs when a substance comes into contact with the skin. Reactions may be allergic or irritant in nature.

Without proper PPE, these hazards can lead to pain, long-term sensitivity, lost workdays, and costly operational disruptions. Cut-resistant gloves, impact-protection solutions, chemical-resistant clothing and gloves provide essential barriers to protect workers and maintain productivity. In mining, prevention isn’t optional it’s a matter of safety, health, and operational resilience.


COMMON CAUSES OF HAND AND SKIN INJURIES IN MINING

A miner’s hands and skin face multiple hazards throughout the workday. Industry reports show that hand and finger injuries are among the top causes of lost-time incidents in Australian mining.

Frequent hazards include:

  • Sharp tools, rock fragments, or metal edges causing cuts or punctures
  • Falling or moving equipment leading to crush injuries
  • Rough, jagged surfaces causing abrasions or blisters
  • Chemical exposure from lubricants, hydraulic oils, and cleaning agents, plus irritation from dust

HOW CUT-RESISTANT GLOVES KEEP MINERS SAFE

Cut resistance remains a key priority in underground and surface mining. Workers frequently handle drill bits, wires, and machinery components where one slip can cause a serious laceration.

High-quality cut-resistant gloves combine advanced fibres and ergonomic design to deliver protection without sacrificing dexterity. These gloves lower the risk of cuts, lacerations, and abrasions, while maintaining a secure grip in dry, wet, or oily conditions. Their flexible design supports precise tool handling, helping improve worker confidence and focus across daily operations.

Mining worker wearing cut-resistant gloves operating a handheld inspection device in an industrial environment.

<span style="color: #00a28f;">PREVENTING SERIOUS HAND INJURIES IN MINING</span>

While cuts are common, impact injuries can be even more severe. Dropped tools, equipment vibration, or sudden movements can cause high-force impacts on hands and fingers, leading to bruising, fractures, or long-term damage.

Impact-protection gloves feature reinforced protective zones that absorb and disperse shock, helping workers reduce the risk of crush injuries and maintain dexterity during demanding mining tasks. These gloves combine flexibility with durable construction and high-visibility colours to improve awareness and protection in low-light or busy worksites.

Mining worker wearing high-visibility impact-protection gloves while handling equipment in a low-light underground setting.

<span style="color: #00a28f;">DEFENDING AGAINST CHEMICAL EXPOSURE</span>

Beyond mechanical risks, many mining activities involve exposure to lubricants, cleaning agents, fuels, and hydraulic fluids all of which can irritate the skin or damage protective clothing over time. To reduce these risks, lightweight chemical protective clothing, such as the AlphaTec™ 1800BC, provides a reliable barrier against splashes, mists, and fine particulates during maintenance or decontamination work. This protection is certified to Type 5/6 standards, offering breathability, antistatic properties, and comfort that support extended wear in demanding environments.

When paired with suitable chemical-resistant gloves and other protection solutions, these coveralls form a full-body defence system that safeguards miners from both mechanical and chemical hazards while supporting safer and more efficient site operations.

Worker wearing lightweight chemical protective coveralls and gloves during maintenance work in a mining facility.

<span style="color: #00a28f;">HOW TO STRENGTHEN HAND AND BODY SAFETY ON SITE</span>

Protecting workers begins with conducting specific and thorough risk assessments. Leaders must ensure that this work is completed, as it forms the foundation for all mitigation measures to be implemented, in accordance with the principle of the hierarchy of controls. PPE is part of the measures that can be implemented to reduce risk. Here are some tips and best practices to ensure that PPE truly fulfills its role:

  • Train teams on PPE fit, usage, and replacement cycles
  • Encourage worker feedback to enhance comfort and compliance
  • Audit PPE performance and update gear as needed
  • Celebrate milestones to reinforce a positive safety culture

CREATING SAFER MINES FOR EVERY WORKER

By implementing the right combination of cut, impact, and chemical protection, mining companies safeguard not only their teams but also their productivity and reputation. Choosing PPE tailored to Australian mining environments helps ensure durability, comfort, and consistent compliance, strengthening safety outcomes across all operations. For deeper insights into the daily hazards workers face in oil and gas and mining, download our guide here.

WHY HAND AND BODY SAFETY MATTERS IN MINING: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)

What are the most common hand injuries in mining?
Lacerations, crush injuries, and chemical burns are among the most frequent. These often result from handling sharp tools, moving machinery, or contact with lubricants and hydraulic fluids. The right gloves can help reduce these risks by providing cut, impact, and chemical protection suited to specific mining tasks.
What makes a glove cut-resistant?
Cut-resistant gloves are made with advanced fibres and multi-layered construction that resist slicing, tearing, and puncture forces. They balance protection with flexibility, allowing workers to handle sharp or rough materials safely and efficiently.
How does PPE protect against chemical exposure in mining?
Chemical protective clothing and gloves act as a barrier against oils, fuels, cleaning agents, and other hazardous substances. Certified materials provide resistance to splashes and particulates while remaining breathable and comfortable for extended wear.
How can mining companies improve PPE compliance on site?
Providing comfortable, task-appropriate PPE, supported by regular training, fit testing, and worker feedback helps increase compliance. Reinforcing safety awareness and celebrating milestones also promotes a stronger safety culture across worksites.

 

Close-up of a blue protective glove holding coal pieces, highlighting hand protection in mining environments.

Don’t wait for injuries to happen. Learn how our mining safety solutions help reduce on-the-job injuries while delivering the comfort, performance, and protection workers need to stay safe and productive throughout the day

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REFERENCE:
* https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33372583/

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