In building materials manufacturing, workers are constantly using their hands — all while being exposed to hazards.
At CertainTeed’s Williamsport facility, crews were handling siding panels throughout long 10-hour shifts. While the panels weren’t razor sharp, their edges still presented cut risks — especially with repetitive handling.
The smooth surface of the siding made gripping more difficult, and constant movement led to fatigue and blistering under sun exposure.
The gloves CertainTeed were using weren’t keeping up.
Workers were stuck with bulky, outdated designs that caused hand fatigue, wore out quickly, and made it harder to securely grip smooth panels. Compliance was slipping, morale was low, and frustration was growing.
The challenge: Low compliance and bulky gloves
CertainTeed crews were relying on seamless gloves from MCR and Ansell. These particular glove models were known for being stiff and lacked the dexterity needed for repetitive side paneling. Instead of helping workers do their jobs, these gloves were slowing them down.
Key issues quickly surfaced:
- Bulky, rigid construction that caused hand fatigue
- Limited dexterity during repetitive panel handling
- Poor grip that made material handling difficult
- Lower durability that led to frequent glove failures
- Frustration growing among workers, resulting in lower compliance and morale
The team needed gloves workers actually wanted to wear — built for superior comfort, confident grip, and all-day wear through repetitive tasks, without the limitations of outdated designs.
The solution: Helix® 1042 and 1050 gloves
After being recommended to HexArmor®, the CertainTeed team started using the Helix® 1042 and Helix® 1050 general-purpose gloves.
Right away, workers noticed the difference — especially improved comfort, fit, and grip.
The Helix® 1042 delivered a lightweight, flexible fit with excellent dexterity that helped reduce hand fatigue during repetitive tasks. The breathable design improved comfort over long shifts, while touchscreen compatibility kept workflows moving without constant glove removal.
The Helix® 1050 added high-visibility benefits and a fiberglass- and steel-free knit that provided exceptional comfort, especially for workers sensitive to irritation. The thin yet durable construction, paired with a textured, slightly tacky palm, delivered the secure grip needed when handling smooth siding panels throughout the day.
Together, these gloves offered the balance CertainTeed needed: better grip, more comfort, and durable performance — without the bulk or stiffness workers had previously experienced.
The result: Higher morale, compliance, and a safer workplace
The switch to HexArmor® gloves quickly reshaped the team’s approach to PPE.
CertainTeed saw:
- Significantly improved morale, thanks to better comfort and reduced fatigue
- Higher compliance, with workers embracing the new gloves without hesitation
- Better grip and control, giving workers more confidence when handling smooth siding panels
- Improved durability, reducing glove turnover and frustration
- Positive acceptance of new safety standards, driven by gloves that performed as promised
For CertainTeed, the shift was simple: when gloves fit better and feel better, workers wear them. And when workers wear them, safety follows.
With Helix®, crews finally had gloves that matched the pace and demands of the job.
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