Gloves & Hand Protection

We use our hands more than any other body part in construction work. That’s why hand injuries are so common—more than a half million per year reference OSHA! ALL hand injuries are preventable when we recognize hand hazards. Plan all activities to eliminate hand hazards by discussing the hand placement and protection of hands. The best way to avoid cutting your hand is to not come in contact with anything that will cut them!! The correct glove for task shall be listed on Pre Task Plan. Hand Safety should be managed in the same manner as all other hazards – Engineered Controls – Administrative Controls – PPE.

Hazards:

• Missing guards on equipment • Pinch points.
• Sharp edge material • Hot Work
• Chemicals • Vibrations
• Electric Shock • Tools with sharp edges or abrasive surfaces

Safe procedures:

• Make sure hand placement is safe. Can the tool hit body parts from use?
• Avoid hand contact with material that has sharp edges.
• Be proactive. Think about the hazards before doing the job. In case tool bounces or fails, where is your hand? Nail gun use.

Recognize that hand protection is based on the hazard. Concrete presents different needs than sharp edges.

• Use the right kind of gloves. Check the MSDS for information on types of gloves to be worn. PPE must not present a greater hazard such as around moving parts, belts, shafts.
• Most gloves are not cut proof – gloves are rated to be cut resistant
• Recognize that hand protection is based on the hazard.

Toolbox talk based on NMGC submitted by Scott Buckmann – Exelon Mystic Station