01.10.2024

Research Report on DRYE Gloves for EV Mechanics

School of Textiles at Borås, Sweden

Field Study in Textile Management

By:

Charu Singh Chauhan S2206076

This Research reported is divided into two parts, allowing you to choose the section that best fits your needs:

Short version: A summarized overview of the key points from the research report, ideal for quick insights. This section is particularly useful for employees, employers, and industry leaders seeking a concise understanding of the findings.

In-depth version: A detailed analysis of the research findings, including tests, evaluations, and future possibilities. This section is especially valuable for industry decision-makers looking to apply the results in strategic planning or workplace improvements.

Introduction

This article summarizes the research report that examines the challenges faced by car mechanics when using electric vehicle gloves (EV gloves). These gloves often lead to skin problems, excessive sweating, and reduced work efficiency. The research, conducted in Gothenburg, focuses on how moisture-absorbing inner gloves can improve the working environment and productivity for mechanics.

Problems for Mechanics

Car mechanics working with EV gloves report issues such as dry and irritated skin due to inadequate ventilation. The rubber gloves, while protecting against electric shocks and chemicals, cause excessive sweating, especially during longer work periods. The accumulated moisture leads to skin inflammation, hand eczema, and other discomforts, particularly in winter when the gloves are worn for extended periods.

Problems for Employers

The study reveals that employers are generally unaware of the issues mechanics experience with sweaty hands and their impact on work efficiency. Sweaty hands and hand eczema are not openly discussed, and many mechanics hesitate to report the problems due to a perceived lack of solutions. This can lead to lower productivity and increased absenteeism, affecting the company’s operations.

Testing

The research study included tests where moisture-absorbing inner gloves were used by mechanics over a period of several weeks. The gloves, made of knitted absorbing materials with high moisture-wicking capability, helped keep the hands dry and reduced skin problems.

Evaluation

Mechanics reported a significant improvement in comfort and work efficiency after using the inner gloves. Skin irritation decreased, and it became easier to put on and take off the protective gloves. This led to reduced time for hand hygiene and smoother transitions between different tasks.

Future

The study suggests that further research should be conducted to investigate the long-term effects of inner gloves on hand health and work efficiency. A quantitative analysis measuring time savings and improved productivity could provide employers with concrete data to promote the adoption of this solution within the automotive service industry.

Next Steps

Further research should also explore how inner gloves can be developed to make them compatible with touch screens, which would eliminate the need to remove them when using digital tools. Investigating the use of inner gloves in other sectors where hand sweating is a problem, such as construction and healthcare, could also broaden their applications.

Summary

Moisture-absorbing inner gloves offer a practical and sustainable solution for improving work efficiency and hand health for car mechanics. They address the issues of sweating and skin irritation caused by EV gloves and contribute to a better working environment. The findings from this research show that inner gloves not only enhance the comfort of mechanics but can also contribute to sustainable business practices and increased productivity.

In depth-version

Executive Summary

This study investigates the challenge of hand sweating and discomfort faced by car mechanics when using Electric Vehicle (EV) gloves, which often lead to skin issues and reduced work efficiency.

Through a qualitative approach involving semi-structured interviews in Gothenburg, Sweden, this research addresses the impact of moisture-absorbing inner lining gloves on the work efficiency of car mechanics.

Insufficient Awareness Among Managers Regarding Hand Sweating

Findings reveal that current EV gloves negatively affect mechanic´s skin, with insufficient awareness among managers regarding hand sweating. Prolonged use of gloves without proper ventilation can create skin issues, including dry scaly skin, hand eczema, atopic dermatitis due to moisture build-up and heat accumulation (Content Engine LLC., 2021).

The employees also lack the awareness of the availability of a possible solution. However, the introduction of inner lining gloves significantly improves moisture balance on the skin of the hands of car mechanics working at electronic car repair centres. This highlights the potential of moisture-absorbing gloves to enhance comfort and work conditions.

The Mechanics Play a Central Role In Servicing Cars

In recent years, environmentally friendly innovations have become a focal point for businesses, governments, and consumers. However, the transition from consumer interest to actual adoption of sustainable practices has been hindered by various factors, including historical influences and attitudinal barriers (Simon, 1993).

One crucial area in need of sustainable solutions is the transportation sector, particularly with the increasing significance of electric vehicles (EVs) as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional combustion engine cars. The depletion of oil resources further reinforces the importance of EVs in shaping a sustainable future (Parkhurst and Clayton, 2022).

As electric vehicles gain prominence, the demand for Electric Car service centres has risen exponentially. The mechanics play a central role in servicing cars, so it is a crucial need to ensure their well-being and productivity. Pfeffer (2010) has characterised human sustainability as management approaches that exert a significant impact on the physical and mental health of employees.

Since, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), by 2050, approximately 50% of the global population may experience various diseases linked to allergies. Allergic diseases are becoming more prevalent worldwide, with factors such as climate change, unhealthy diets, improper medication use, and other influences contributing significantly to this increase. (Content Engine LLC. 2021).

To protect their hands from exposure to liquid chemicals and voltage, car mechanics commonly use vinyl or Electric Vehicle (EV) gloves, which are also called High Voltage (HV) gloves.

These gloves, often made from materials like Latex (natural rubber), Silicone, Vinyl (PVC), or Nitrile (synthetic rubber), are essential for safeguarding mechanics' skin during their daily tasks. The study uncovered a critical problem of discomfort and skin issues experienced by car mechanics due to the inadequate ventilation of current EV gloves. The rubber gloves, though protective, result in sweating, skin dryness, and irritation in hands while working.

Excessive Sweating

The study highlighted a lack of awareness among managers regarding the issue of hand sweating among mechanics. This indicates a gap in communication and understanding between mechanics and their managers regarding the discomfort caused by excessive sweating and the need for potential solutions. As suggested by Abid et al. (2020), thriving within the workplace plays a crucial role in attaining the objective of human sustainability, as it leads to the cultivation of both robust employee well-being and strong engagement.

Unaddressed Hand Eczema

Hand eczema among car mechanics remains unaddressed, and there are currently no customized solutions available to tackle this specific problem. The prolonged use of EV gloves, which restrict air and water permeability, builds heat and exacerbates sweating, especially in the palms, leading to skin damage and discomfort.

Lack of Awareness Among Managers and Mechanics

The findings revealed a lack of awareness among managers regarding the issue of hand sweating caused by using vinyl or Electric Vehicle (EV) gloves. Managers were generally unaware of the discomfort caused by excessive sweating and its impact on the mechanics' work efficiency.

Companies usually have a law around using protective clothes from a certain brand as agreed under company policy. On the other hand, car mechanics hesitate to discuss the problem of hand sweating with their managers due to a perceived lack of available solutions. Hand sweating and related issues, such as hand eczema, were not openly discussed as chronic problems, which further contributed to the lack of awareness and suitable solutions. The mechanics themselves were not aware of the availability of lining gloves that absorb and transport sweat to the top layer, which helps in keeping the hands dry and prevents inflammation in dermatitis conditions.

Impact of EV Gloves on Mechanics

Mechanics reported that they are required to wear EV gloves for tasks involving changing of car batteries to protect their hands from voltage and while working with the liquids within the vehicle such as coolant, wiper fluid, brake fluid, etc.
However, the constant use of these gloves resulted in skin abrasion and breakage, exacerbating the problem when exposed to sweat (Lund et al., 2020). Due to the tight-fitting and non-permeable nature of EV gloves, excessive sweating occurred, especially in the palms, making it difficult to remove the gloves and leading to prolonged hand hygiene processes. Mechanics often washed their hands frequently due to sweaty gloves, causing further damage to their already dry skin.

Using protective gloves has a negative impact on the skin condition of car mechanics
The mechanics using protective gloves while working said their hand skin is most dry and itchy in winters and then goes better in spring while it vanishes in summers when they are on vacation and not wearing protective gloves. It starts developing again in autumn, especially on the knuckles of hands.

New Market Exploration:

In addition to the mechanics using EV gloves, the study explored a new market segment among mechanics who perform yearly car tests for road safety, also called `bilbesiktning´ in Swedish. Mechanics working here use thicker protective gloves. Unlike mechanics using EV gloves, these mechanics did not experience sweaty hands but faced the issue of grease build-up on the inside of the gloves due to little perspiration and moisturizers used on dry hands.

The proposed moisture wicking inner lining gloves solved this problem, offering a hygienic option for mechanics to use lining gloves that are easy to wash, eliminating the need for frequent hand washing.

These mechanics remove and wear their protective gloves approximately 9 times per hour for four to six hours a day, making the lining gloves an ideal solution to protect the skin from abrasion caused by continuous movement.

Sustainable Business Practices:

The convergence of eco-friendly technology, user-centric design, and fabric innovation highlights the potential to foster a sustainable and productive future for professionals across industries. The proposed inner lining gloves can contribute to sustainable business practices in the automotive service industry.

By reducing the consumption of water and cleaning agents required for frequent hand washing, as well as expensive moisturizers, the gloves align with the industry's growing focus on environmental responsibility as per Paillé, Amara, & Halilem (2018).

Taking employees in confidence by building trust in leadership promotes social sustainability. The fabric is colorfast and easy to clean; however, washing it with cold water is recommended to conserve energy and protect the fabric from damage.

If possible, hand wash it separately with cold water and hang it to dry. Car repair shops are predominantly occupied by a male workforce, primarily young individuals who show hesitation in discussing hand care routines and preventive measures on hand skin care at the workplace.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the proposed inner lining gloves with moisture-absorbing properties present a promising solution to improve the work efficiency and comfort of car mechanics in Electric Car service centers. By addressing the issue of hand sweating and offering a more user-friendly glove option, this research aims to enhance workplace conditions and promote the well-being of car mechanics.

The potential of inner lining gloves to revolutionize work conditions in the automotive service industry cannot be understated. It prevents the rising prevalence of allergic diseases and promotes a healthier, more productive workforce. However, certain challenges remain, such as the need to make the gloves screen-friendly and to address the heat generated during specific tasks.

The study highlights the positive impact of inner lining gloves with moisture-absorbing properties on car mechanics' work efficiency and well-being. By addressing the issue of hand sweating caused by EV gloves, this research offers a tangible solution that aligns with the growing importance of sustainable workplace practices.

The envisioned benefits are not only confined to mechanics but extend to various professions and industries facing similar challenges. These gloves not only alleviate discomfort but also contribute to sustainable business practices, as the study contributes to a broader conversation on improving workplace conditions and promoting the overall health and productivity of employees.

Data Collection Methods:

The primary data collection method used in this study was semi-structured interviews. Car mechanics employed in various companies at different automotive service centers in Gothenburg were selected as participants for the interviews.
Before conducting the interviews, a set of predetermined questions were developed to guide the discussions.

These questions covered topics such as the experiences of car mechanics with hand sweating, the challenges faced in using EV gloves, and their perceptions of inner lining gloves with moisture-absorbing properties. While the interviews had some predetermined questions, the participants were also encouraged to freely express their thoughts and experiences, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the problem.

Inner lining glove samples were provided to the car mechanics who were using EV gloves as part of their regular work routines. The participants were asked to use these gloves over a period of a few weeks and share their experiences with the new gloves. During the interviews, participants were specifically asked about the impact of using the inner lining gloves on their work efficiency and overall comfort.

To ensure accurate documentation and subsequent analysis of the interview data, each interview session was limited to a maximum duration of 15 minutes and was audio recorded. Audio recording allowed capturing detailed responses and avoided potential biases introduced by note-taking during the interviews.

Data Analysis Procedures:

The data analysis process followed an inductive approach to identify themes, patterns, and insights from the interviews. The audio recordings of the interviews were transcribed verbatim, and the transcripts were then subjected to thematic analysis.

To ensure the reliability and validity of the findings, member checking was conducted. Member checking involved sharing the preliminary findings with some of the participants to validate the accuracy and relevance of the identified themes. Participant feedback was incorporated into the final analysis, enhancing the credibility of the results.

The findings were then used to support the conclusions drawn about the impact of inner lining gloves with moisture-absorbing properties on the work efficiency of car mechanics.

Results and Findings:

While investigating the impact of using inner lining gloves with moisture-absorbing properties on the work efficiency of car mechanics, the following findings were observed:

Using protective gloves has a negative impact on the skin condition of car mechanics: The mechanics using protective gloves while working said their hand skin is most dry and itchy in winters and then goes better in spring while it vanishes in summers when they are on vacation and not wearing protective gloves. It starts developing again in autumn, especially on the knuckles of hands.

Lack of Awareness Among Managers and Mechanics: The findings revealed a lack of awareness among managers regarding the issue of hand sweating caused by using vinyl or Electric Vehicle (EV) gloves. Managers were generally unaware of the discomfort caused by excessive sweating and its impact on the mechanics' work efficiency. Companies usually have a law around using protective clothes from a certain brand as agreed under company policy. On the other hand, car mechanics hesitate to discuss the problem of hand sweating with their managers due to a perceived lack of available solutions. Hand sweating and related issues, such as hand eczema, were not openly discussed as chronic problems, which further contributed to the lack of awareness and suitable solutions. The mechanics themselves were not aware of the availability of lining gloves that absorb and transport sweat to the top layer, which helps in keeping the hands dry and prevents inflammation in dermatitis conditions.

Impact of EV Gloves on Mechanics: Mechanics reported that they are required to wear EV gloves for tasks involving changing of car batteries to protect their hands from voltage and while working with the liquids within the vehicle such as coolant, wiper fluid, brake fluid, etc. However, the constant use of these gloves resulted in skin abrasion and breakage, exacerbating the problem when exposed to sweat (Lund et al., 2020). Due to the tight-fitting and non-permeable nature of EV gloves, excessive sweating occurred, especially in the palms, making it difficult to remove the gloves and leading to prolonged hand hygiene processes. Mechanics often washed their hands frequently due to sweaty gloves, causing further damage to their already dry skin.

Improved Work Efficiency with Inner Lining Gloves: When mechanics used the proposed inner lining gloves for a month, they reported a positive impact on work efficiency. The inner lining gloves, made of absorbing materials with moisture-wicking properties, absorbed excess sweat, allowing for easier removal of the EV gloves. The skin inflammation showed a significant improvement, resulting in less itchy or more comfortable conditions. As a result, the time required for hand hygiene was significantly reduced, and mechanics were able to transition between tasks more smoothly.

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