We may all be unique when it comes to the patterns of our fingerprints, but in the workplace, there is a familiar pattern that many a finger has pointed at. That is, work-related injuries of the hand and wrist, is a common problem that sidelines thousands of Australians per year, around 8,500 hospital admissions.
In addition to repetitive strain, some of the main causes of these injuries include crushing, pinching or jamming of the hand in machinery or doors; contact with sharp edged equipment such as tools, knives and lawnmower blades; the dropping of heavy objects; and puncturing. The damage ranges from bruising to breaks, nerve impairment, and sometimes, amputation. Rehabilitation can be long and arduous, and costly to businesses.
“People are our greatest asset and hands are one of our most used tools, so it is important to select the right glove for the application."
As always, risk prevention is essential. This includes the use of purpose-designed Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The hand is a remarkable piece of natural engineering and alone contains 35 muscles, so choosing the suitable hand protection, usually gloves, requires careful consideration. Some key factors are tactility, flexibility, mobility, and comfort. However, these factors mean nothing if there is little or no level of impact protection.
“People are our greatest asset and hands are one of our most used tools, so it is important to select the right glove for the application. By ensuring businesses assess their worksites and provide workers with the right protective gloves, this can decrease injuries whilst increasing overall productivity and efficiency,” says Theo Oostveen Marketing Manager/Business Development, Ansell Ltd.
When considering this, some important things to keep in mind are:
1. Material: Ask your local Blackwoods representative if your prospective glove has the market leading Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR)
2. Coverage: The expansiveness of TPR across the top of the hand, knuckles, thumb, and fingers (including tips).
3. High Visibility: Easily seen products increase awareness of hand location.
4. Dexterity and Grip
Keep your hands safe by putting them in good hands!
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