Käsikaitses

Käsikaitses is a term in Estonian that can be translated as hand protection or protection for the hands. It is formed from käsi (hand) and kaitse (protection or defense). In everyday language it refers to objects or practices designed to guard the hands from injury, contamination, or other hazards.

Common forms of käsikaitses include gloves designed for work, such as labor gloves and insulated gloves for cold environments; cut-resistant gloves for handling sharp objects; and heat-resistant gloves for high-temperature tasks. Medical and laboratory settings use disposable gloves (latex, nitrile, vinyl) to prevent contamination. Sports and recreational activities employ specialized gloves—boxing gloves, cycling gloves, climbing gloves, goalkeeper gloves—each emphasizing grip, padding, or protection.

In Europe, hand protection falls under the broader category of personal protective equipment (PPE). Standards typically address fit, grip, abrasion and cut resistance, chemical splash protection, and durability. Employers in hazardous environments usually require appropriate hand protection and provide training on correct use, inspection, and replacement.

Historically, hand coverings have served both practical protection and social functions in various trades. In Estonian and wider European contexts, gloves and other forms of hand protection have been common in crafts, construction, and daily labor, reflecting evolving materials and safety practices.

See also: gloves, personal protective equipment, hand safety, PPE standards.