Keeping Your Hands Safe How Important are Your

Keeping Your Hands Safe

How Important are Your Hands? • The hand is a complex parts of your body. • Recovery from a severe hand injury is often a long and painful process. • Many of life’s simple daily tasks (e. g. , getting dressed, brushing your teeth, opening doors, driving, and eating) involve your hands. • Your hands are an important part of making you a skilled and valuable worker.

Hand Injuries • Most common causes of hand injuries Ø Ø Ø Performing tasks with no gloves on due to belief that gloves impede dexterity Using the wrong tool Improperly using the right tool Carelessness/lack of awareness/rushing Boredom/distractions

Hand Injuries • Avoiding hand injuries Ø Ø Know the hazards and dangers in the tasks your completing. Be aware of pinch points, hot areas, and rotating/ moving surfaces. Remove loose clothing and jewelry that can get caught in moving machinery. Never remove machine safeguards or operate machinery with safeguards removed.

Hand Hazards • • Arc Flash Bacteria Chemicals Cold Cuts Heat Impact • • • Liquid Oil Static Vibration Stings/Bites Punctures

Your Secret Weapon • The “right” glove

Choosing the RIGHT Glove First—TASK General Purpose Work Gloves Insulated Gloves Cut Resistant Gloves Medical Examination Gloves Chemical Resistant Gloves Cleanroom Gloves Disposable Gloves Impact/Vibration Resistant Gloves

Choosing the RIGHT Glove SIZE Matters Source: Superiorglove. com.

Glove Care • Inspect gloves before use for holes, cracks, or deterioration. Ensure there are no tears, excessive wear, or punctures. • Store gloves in a clean, dry location. • Discard leather and cloth gloves if they become saturated with oil or other chemicals. • Leak test chemical gloves by sealing the wrist and filling the glove with air. • Replace gloves if damaged.

Hand Care • Avoid washing your hands with solvents, harsh soaps, or abrasives. • Clean and bandage all cuts and abrasions. • Immediately remove any imbedded foreign materials. • Wash hands immediately after using any chemical, even if you did not detect leakage. • Pay attention to skin rashes—get an immediate medical evaluation. • Wear cotton gloves under rubber gloves to reduce sweating.

Hand Protection • Hand injuries can be debilitating. • Prevention is key! • Ask yourself: Ø Am I wearing the right glove for the job? Ø Do my gloves fit snugly? Ø Have I removed my jewelry (rings, watches, and bracelets)?

Keeping Your Hands Safe