Posted On: April 16, 2024

Keeping Your Hands, Wrists, and Fingers Safe

Introduction

No matter the field we work in, our hands, wrists, and fingers play a vital role in performing a variety of tasks. They facilitate communication, and operation of equipment, and are irreplaceable in manual tasks. However, these functions also expose them to potential hazards and risks. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, injuries to the hand, wrist, and fingers account for more than a quarter of all workplace injuries. Failing to prioritize their safety can lead to serious consequences such as decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and, in severe cases, disability.

Common Hand, Wrist, and Finger Injuries in the Workplace

• Sprains and Strains: These injuries occur when the muscles or ligaments in the hand, wrist, or fingers get stretched or torn. This is often due to overuse or sudden force applied to them.
• Cuts and Punctures: Sharp objects or machinery can cause cuts and punctures. These injuries can be minor or severe, depending on the depth of the cut and the object causing the injury.
• Fractures: A fracture, a break in the bone, can happen in the hand, wrist, or fingers from falling, being hit on the hand, or twisting or bending forcefully.
• Burns: Burns to the hands, wrists, and fingers in the workplace can result from contact with hot surfaces, chemicals, or flames, leading to pain, blistering, and tissue damage.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI): Engaging in tasks that require repetitive movements, like typing, assembly line work, or using vibrating tools, may result in repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or bursitis affecting the hands, wrists, and fingers.

Common Workplace Hazards Leading to Hand, Wrist, and Finger Injuries

• Lack of Proper Safety Equipment: Failure to provide or use suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves increases the risk of injuries.
• Unsafe Work Practices: Not paying attention to safety rules, lifting incorrectly, or not following the right procedures when using machinery or equipment can lead to incidents and harm.
• Chemical Exposure: Failing to take proper precautions when handling dangerous chemicals can cause chemical burns or dermatitis on the hands and fingers.
• Machines Without Guards: Exposed machinery or uncovered moving parts can cause serious hand, wrist, or finger injuries if they are accidentally touched.
• Slip, Trip, and Fall Hazards: Wet or slippery floors, cluttered work areas, and uneven surfaces increase the chances of slips, trips, and falls, potentially resulting in hand and wrist injuries upon colliding with surfaces or objects.

Seeking Medical Attention

For severe injuries, or if you suspect a fracture:

• Call For Help: Contact emergency services or seek immediate medical attention.
• Professional Advice: If the wound is severe or there is a possibility of a fracture, don't wait to get advice from healthcare professionals.
• Follow Medical Instructions: Follow instructions given by medical personnel carefully to ensure proper treatment and recovery.

Conclusion

Our hands, wrists, and fingers are involved in nearly every activity we engage in, whether it’s operating machinery, typing at a computer, or handling materials. Any injury to these parts can disrupt our daily activities and overall quality of life. Moreover, the recovery process can often be long and challenging. Therefore, prioritizing safety is important. By implementing proper training, providing suitable equipment, and encouraging everyone to make safety a priority, we can create a safer workplace environment for everyone.

Written by: Muntaha Islam