Just about every profession requires the use of a person’s hands to get the work done. This means there is always a risk of an injury to the hands. It is up to employers to provide a safe work environment for employees, but employees must also be sure to utilize the proper equipment and follow the safety protocol.
Preventing hand injuries is critical for all workers because the hands are difficult to fix, and they can take a long time to heal. There are several ways that you can improve hand safety at work.
Choose proper gloves for the task at hand
Wearing proper gloves may stop certain injuries. For example, cut-resistant gloves are ideal for people who are working with sharp objects. All gloves should fit properly to enhance the safety of the worker. Gloves that are too loose may become caught or trapped in moving equipment, which can lead to serious injuries.
Pay attention to hand and finger placement
Keeping hands and fingers away from moving objects and other hazards can prevent many injuries. Part of this has to do with proper training on how to use equipment, which is especially important for individuals in the manufacturing industry.
Workers who suffer a hand injury should ensure they get prompt medical care. Workers’ compensation coverage should take care of the medical bills. If the employee is unable to return to work quickly, this coverage may also provide partial wage replacement so the worker has an income while they heal. Vocational rehab might be necessary if the hand injury has long-term effects that prevent the person from doing their former job duties.