A workers hands and fingers are vital body parts to complete your daily tasks. We use them to write, to drive, to eat, and even to pick up our children. One of the more common hazard exposures to employees is injuries to hands and fingers. Our hands can be easily injured during the work day by cuts, chemical burns, pinch points and crushing.
When conducting tasks, hand injuries is generally not the first thing that is considered. However, hand related injuries are one of the most prevalent injuries in our industry. During the review of our companies hazard identifications and job observation cards, hand pinch point and crushing injury potentials were the highest occurring. For example: an employee rigging in noticed the rig was not centered before pulling the tubing to get the elevator to latch properly. If the employee had not stopped and thought about the potential dangers that existed, the employee could have pinched their fingers.
There are several preventative measures that can be taken to prevent exposure to hand pinch point and crushing injuries. These can include wearing the appropriate gloves for the task, maintain good communication with others around you, always follow company procedures and JSA’s, take breaks at reasonable intervals, and stopping work if you are unsure or feel an unsafe situation is developing. Most importantly, don’t rush and don’t become complacent, take your time completing the task.