According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 110,000 hand injuries resulting in lost work time occur annually across various industries. Even more striking, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that 71% of these injuries could be prevented through proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), specifically work safety gloves.
Given the critical role of hand protection, it’s imperative to understand and implement best practices for hand safety. Here’s a guide from HANVO Safety to ten essential hand safety tips that can significantly reduce workplace risks and help safeguard your hands.
1. Select Protective Gloves Based on the Task
Choosing the correct PPE glove for a specific job is fundamental to ensuring hand safety. Gloves are tailored for cut resistance, mechanical protection, heat resistance, and chemical handling. Using work gloves that are not designed for the task can be more hazardous than not wearing any protection at all. Ensure you always use gloves that match the risk level of your task to minimize injuries.
Key Tip: If you’re unsure about which glove to use, consult your company’s PPE safety guidelines or ask a supervisor.
2. Never Remove Gloves While on the Job
It can be tempting to remove gloves when they feel uncomfortable or seem to hinder dexterity. However, removing safety gloves, even temporarily, exposes hands to potential hazards. Instead, report discomfort to your PPE safety manager, who can recommend ergonomically designed gloves that balance protection and mobility.
Key Tip: Choose gloves that offer both protection and the flexibility you need for the job.
3. Ensure Proper Fit
A well-fitted glove is critical for both safety and performance. Gloves that are too loose may reduce your grip and lead to fatigue, while gloves that are too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort.
To avoid this, measure your hands accurately and choose gloves that fit snugly without restricting movement. If standard sizes don’t fit well, request customized options.
4. Replace Gloves at the Right Time
Safety gloves, especially reusable ones, have a limited lifespan. Over time, gloves may show signs of wear, such as holes, tears, or thinning areas. Even small signs of damage can compromise the glove’s effectiveness.
Make it a habit to inspect gloves before each shift and replace them if they show signs of wear or deterioration.
5. Follow Proper Donning and Doffing Techniques
Putting on and removing gloves correctly is an often overlooked aspect of hand safety. Improper donning or doffing can expose hands to contaminants or chemicals.
Always wear gloves after other PPE, such as goggles or sleeves. When removing gloves, avoid touching contaminated surfaces with bare hands, and follow proper disposal protocols for single-use gloves.
6. Remove Jewelry Before Wearing Gloves
Jewelry such as rings or bracelets can compromise the fit and integrity of safety gloves. Rings can cause snags or tears, while bracelets can interfere with proper glove placement.
Always remove jewelry before putting on safety gloves to minimize the risk of damage to the glove and potential injury.
7. Stay Focused and Alert
Hand injuries are more likely to occur when workers are fatigued or distracted. When performing tasks that require manual dexterity, ensure you’re in the right mental state to stay focused.
Taking regular breaks and stretching your hands can also help reduce the risk of injuries caused by repetitive movements.
8. Use Equipment Correctly
Operating machinery or tools incorrectly is a common cause of hand injuries. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure you’re properly trained before using any equipment.
Avoid disabling safety features or removing guards from machines, and ensure tools are well-maintained to prevent malfunctions.
9. Avoid Risky Behaviors
No matter how routine a task may seem, never take shortcuts when it comes to hand safety. Avoid placing your hands near sharp edges or moving parts, and refrain from reaching into areas that are not visible.
Key Tip: If a task feels risky or dangerous, stop and reassess the situation before proceeding.
10. Report All Hand Injuries Immediately
Even minor injuries can have long-term consequences if not treated promptly. If you sustain an injury, report it to your supervisor immediately and seek medical attention. Early intervention can reduce the severity of injuries and prevent future incidents.
Additionally, it’s important to report near misses or close calls to identify hazards and implement preventative measures.
Why Hand Safety Matters: Protect Your Most Valuable Tool
Your hands are one of your most important tools on the job, and their protection should be a top priority. By following these hand safety tips, you can help reduce the risk of injuries and ensure a safer workplace.
