Hand Safety

Hand Safety: being careful is our responsibility!

“ALL hand injuries are preventable.”

Concerned people:

·         Lab technicians

·         Machine operators

·         Office workers

·         Any kind of workers who use their hands

Hands are most important because of their utility.

Hands = tools

The key to hand injury prevention is you!

Handy Tips for SAFE HANDS

1. Glassware/Metal parts

When handling/using glassware or metal parts:

·         Inspect the component for cracks and sharp edges.

·         Wear appropriate gloves.

·         Do not apply too much force on the glass.

·         Check the glass is not damaged before using it.

·         In a test process, stop the test if something is wrong such as raising temperatures.

2. Machine/Moving equipment

·         Do not intervene on moving equipment.

·         Do not place your hands nearby pitching points.

·         During maintenance, use lockout device and safety blocks.

3. Knife

·         Replace retractable knives with safety knives (protective blade).

·         If using a retractable knife, position your hands on each side of the cutting line.

·         At workplace, don’t use your own knife to open/cut anything.

Preventing measures

Hand protection: GLOVES should be worn when handling:

- Hazardous materials

- Toxic chemicals

- Corrosive materials

- Materials with sharp or rough edges

- Very hot or very cold materials

Types of gloves:

- Kevlar gloves: protect against cut

- Nitrile gloves: protect from chemicals or solvents

- Heat resistant gloves: protection against hot /cold objects or when using ovens or autoclaves

- Latex gloves: protect from biohazards (infection risks)

Use safety knives and other equipment WITH GUARDS since gloves do no protect from