Take Care of Your Hands

Of the many tools that we have available, our hands are the most valuable. They provide us with the dexterity necessary to perform precise maneuvers that even the most advanced technology cannot replicate. Even the simplest tasks are difficult for a person that does not have full use of their hands.

Everyday tasks can put your hands at risk. Hand injuries on the job are quite common, but many are preventable. There are lots of things you can do to keep your hands safe—here are a few of the most common.

Wear Gloves

Always protect your hands by wearing work gloves when handling rough materials or using your hands to lift or move objects. An Occupational Safety and Health Administration study revealed that 70 percent of workers experiencing hand injuries were not wearing gloves. The remaining 30 percent were making use of damaged, inadequate or inappropriate types of gloves for the job. Choose the right glove for the task at hand and inspect it thoroughly before use.

Wash Carefully

Use warm, not hot, water to wash hands, and use a facility-approved, water-based moisturizer to protect against skin irritation from frequent washing. If necessary, avoid latex gloves and use oil-based moisturizers under cotton gloves at home to treat severely irritated skin.

Be Cautious of Sharp Objects

Utilize the correct safety procedures when working around scalpels, needles and other sharp objects. Never attempt to pick up broken glass or other sharp objects not meant for handling with bare hands; always use appropriate gloves or a broom.

Remove Rings

No matter how much sentimental value they carry, rings put your hands in grave danger on the job. They can very easily catch on moving parts and objects, resulting in lacerations, amputations or broken bones. Always remove rings before beginning work.

Stay Alert

Whenever you are using your hands to move an object, whether you are pushing it or carrying it, be sure the doorways and aisles in your path are wide enough for you to move through safely before you start the job. When you set a heavy object down, be aware of the placement of your hands. Always be alert for possible pinch points.

Speak Up

If you are unsure about any issue regarding the protection of your hands on the job, talk to your supervisor. At , we make your safety our first priority.

Safety Matters | Take Care of Your Hands