It's an unusual job that doesn't include a certain amount of material handling. Whether you are a warehouse assistant, a machine operator, or an office worker, you handle materials at least occasionally, if not constantly. That's when your hands and fingers are at risk. According to the National Safety Council, most on-the-job injuries involve fingers and hands.
Here are some things you can do to keep your hands safe:
* Inspect materials for slivers, jagged or sharp edges, burrs, and rough or slippery surfaces.
* Wear the right kind of gloves for the task. Use gloves, hand leathers, or other hand protection when applicable.
* Grasp objects firmly.
* Know your equipment. Keep your fingers away from pinch points.
* Keep your hands away from the ends of boards, pipes, or other long objects.
* Wipe off materials that are wet, greasy, slippery, or dirty before you handle them.
* Keep your hands free of oil and grease.
* Check to see if there are handles available for various items such as auto batteries. Use tongs for feeding material into metal-forming machines and use baskets for carrying laboratory samples.
* Ensure that your hands and fingers are clear before you put down a heavy carton.