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Hand and Arm Protection

Ensuring your hands and arms are safeguarded against potential hazards is essential for a safe working environment. Remember, ‘Safe Hands Mean No Harm—Protect Your Reach.’

The Risk

Hand Injuries: Protecting hands from various hazards such as cuts, punctures, abrasions, and chemical exposures is critical in maintaining a safe and productive environment

Caused by: 

  • Sharp edges, tools, and materials can cause severe cuts
  • Pointed objects and needles pose puncture risks
  • Rough surfaces can lead to skin abrasions
  • Harmful chemicals can penetrate or degrade glove materials, causing burns or skin irritation.
  • High temperatures and flames can cause burns and other injuries

The Cost

Serious Consequences: Serious hand injuries can lead to long-term disabilities like nerve damage, limited mobility, and even amputation. Hand injuries were the most frequent in DART cases (days away from work, restricted, or transferred) during 2021-2022.

Cost Delays: Hand injuries contribute significantly to the overall cost of work injuries, totalling $167 billion in 2022. Injuries often result in downtime and decreased productivity, leading to further costs.

Tool Damage: Improper handling and lack of protection can damage tools and equipment, adding to the expense.

Solution

Gear Up with PPE: Choose gloves that match the hazard: cut resistance, puncture resistance, abrasion resistance, chemical protection, and heat/flame resistance. Ensure gloves fit well and don’t hinder dexterity.

Stay Up to Date: Regularly train on the importance of hand protection and proper glove selection. Keep up to date with the latest edition of ANSI/ISEA 105: American National Standard for Hand Protection Classification.

Work Smarter: Regularly inspect gloves and replace worn-out ones to maintain protection and promote awareness through safety talks and toolbox meetings.

The 4 P's of Hand & Arm Protection

Pick: Choose the right gloves for the job—whether it’s cut resistance, chemical protection, or heat resistance, always ensure your gloves match the hazard.

Put On: Wear your gloves properly every time. Make sure they fit snugly but comfortably, so they don’t interfere with your work.

Protect: Inspect gloves regularly for wear and tear. Replace them as needed to maintain optimal protection against hazards.

Promote: Encourage others to use hand protection by setting an example and sharing tips on proper glove selection and care.

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