HAND SAFETY
HAVE A PLAN – TO PROTECT YOUR HANDS
10 Rules to Protect Your 10 Fingers
- Use gloves 100% of the time. Gloves offer protection from sharp objects, splinters, electrical burns, chemicals, and many other sources of injury. Like other PPE, gloves only work when they’re worn.
- Beware of pinch points. Train yourself to recognize pinch points and to avoid placing your hands and fingers in hazardous spots. Keep out of the “line of fire”.
- Expect the expected. When using wrenches and other hand tools, you expect resistance, so anticipate that the tool might slip or the object may suddenly give way.
- Inspect tools before each use. Be sure they are in good condition and safe to use.
- Avoid work on moving equipment. Make sure no moving parts can impact you during the job.
- Replace machine guards following repairs that require removal of guards. Do not use any tool with a safety guard removed!
- Be mindful of equipment that starts automatically. Never work on such equipment without first eliminating the possibility of automatic startup through LOTO.
- De-energize electrical equipment through LOTO prior to working on it. Arc Flash burns caused by shorted electrical equipment are a threat to hands and fingers.
- Be mindful when closing doors. Keep hands and fingers clear.
- Avoid touching any line or equipment that is (or could be) hot.
Some tools are irreplaceable – always have a plan to protect your hands!