Hand Safety
Protect Your Hands Before the Task Begins
Hands are often placed close to tools, moving parts, sharp edges and stored energy because the job appears familiar or quick. Gloves can reduce some exposures, but they cannot make an unsafe hand position safe. Before touching, lifting, aligning or clearing anything, identify where the item could move and choose a method that keeps hands away from pinch, cut and crush zones.
Controls to confirm
- Identify pinch points, sharp edges and possible movement before placing your hands.
- Use the correct tool, handling aid and task-appropriate gloves instead of using hands as guides.
- Stop the task before clearing a jam, adjusting equipment or reaching past a guard.
Today’s action
Before the first hands-on step, point out the safest hand position and the nearest pinch point.