Welcome to the Hard Hat Training Series! SAMPLE · Welcome to the Hard Hat Training Series. Today, we will talk about hand safety. Hand injures are one of the leading causes of lost

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INTRODUCTION COMMON INJURIES SAFE OPERATIONS HAZARDS CONCLUSIONPPE

Welcome to the Hard Hat Training Series. Today, we will talk about hand safety. Hand injures are one of the leading causes of lost workdays. We will give you the knowledge and understanding you need to become a better and safer worker.

Welcome to the Hard Hat Training Series!

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From minor cuts and abrasions to crushing injuries and amputations, hand injuries can be costly for employers and life-changing for employees. However, most hand injuries are preventable.

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Those numbers add up to over one million workers in emergency rooms across the country with hand injuries. The financial implications for these workers are life-long, as hand injuries have great potential to result in permanent, debilitating damage.

Did You Know? About 70% of hand and arm injuries can be prevented by wearing

proper PPE, specifically gloves.SAMPLE



About HandsThe human hand is complex and intricate. It is made up of 29 different bones, 14 of which are in the fingers and thumb alone. Each of your hands contains 123 ligaments. It takes 34 muscles to move your fingers and thumb (17 in your palm and 18 in your forearm).

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PALSSAMPLE



Thirty arteries supply blood to the hands, with almost as many smaller branches. Your hands each have 48 nerves — three major nerves, 24 sensory branches, and 21 muscular branches. You fingertips have the highest concentrations of nerve endings in the entire human body.

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With all these pieces fitting and working together in a carefully-balanced process, it isn’t surprising that even a “simple” injury to the hand or wrist can have far-reaching repercussions. Loss of motion or dexterity in one small part of this delicate machine that is your hand can jeopardize your ability to perform even the most basic of tasks. It is essential, then, to protect them from injury.

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In this training, we will go over some of the most common injuries your hands are at risk of incurring. We will also discuss how to operate safely and keep these injuries from occurring by using methods such as lockout/tagout and machine guarding.

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We will also discuss the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and how to choose the correct equipment for the job at hand. Additionally, we will help you recognize and understand hazards that may exist in your worksite and review them with the use of real, investigated workplace accidents.

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These are some of the main standards concerning hand safety. Many provinces or jurisdictions have additional standards, as dosome industries. We have provided these as a guide, but it’s your responsibility to know all federal, local, and company rules that apply to your jobsite.

CSA Z462 – Protective Clothing & Equipment

CSA Z460-05 Control of Hazardous Energy – Lockout & Other Methods

CSA Z432 – Safeguarding of Machinery

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Second, training is vital to safety. And not only training but a conscious application of that training. The days of sitting through a training class only to return to your same old habits are over. The training culture in our country needs to change, and by that we mean both employers and workers alike need to take a more proactive role integrating the principles into their daily routine.

Why Training?

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Initial training and refresher training, as well as any written and practical evaluations, must be documented and filed. At the very least, in the case of an investigation, authorities will want to see proof of proper and consistent training (in the way of training outlines, class lists, training goals, tests, certificates, and so on.) These documents should include the name of the person who taught the class or conducted the evaluation.

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Training is not just a one-and-done occurrence; it is ongoing. In fact, similar to the guidelines set down for when initial training is required, the regulations are very specific, as noted in this graphic.

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The extent of training will be determined by the employer, but at the very least, it should include classroom instruction, followed by a written and practical examination that prove continued competency.

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INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION COMMON INJURIES SAFE OPERATIONS PPE HAZARDS CONCLUSION

Common Injuries

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Hands are prone to numerous kinds of injuries in the workplace. While we can’t go over every one of them here, we will discuss the most common:• Lacerations (cuts)• Strains and sprains• Fractures• Burns• MSDs• HAVS• Avulsion• Amputations

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LacerationsPossibly the most minor of the injuries hands are prone to, cuts and lacerations can be small scratches on the surface of the skin. However, they can also be deep injuries that can cut through nerves or tendons. Cuts and lacerations should always be taken seriously and tended to properly to avoid infection.

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Puncture WoundsPuncture wounds are caused by a sharp object penetrating the skin. It is usually narrow and much deeper than a cut or laceration. Staples, tacks, needles, and even teeth can all cause puncture wounds. The most likely cause of a puncture wound on a worksite is a nail gun.

wikifoundry.com wikifoundry.comSAMPLE



On the surface, a puncture would may not seem like a big deal. The wound itself may not be very big, and it may not even bleed very much; however, you should take extra care with puncture wounds. Because these injuries are hard to clean, they provide an optimal environment for bacteria to grow.

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Strains & SprainsBelieve it or not, your feet have a lot to do with hand injuries. When you slip or trip, your instinctive reaction is to put your hands out to break your fall. This can lead to injuries or tears to the ligaments in the hand or wrist, otherwise known as a sprain.

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FracturesBecause the bones in your hands and fingers are so small, they can be relatively easy to break. Like sprains, a broken hand can be caused by a fall. If your hand is crushed or twisted, as it would be if caught in moving parts of a machine, this could also cause fractures.

Did You Know? The most common hand fracture is a fracture of the bone that supports the little finger. This is commonly called a

“boxer’s fracture.” A boxer’s fracture is caused most often by punching or striking a hard object with your fist.SAMPLE



BurnsBurns are damage to the skin or other tissues. They can be caused by heat, chemicals, sunlight, or radiation. The severity of the burn and how it is treated depends on how many layers of the skin are affected. Burns in the workplace can be broken into three different categories: • Thermal• Electrical• Chemical

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Thermal burns, as you can imagine, happen when your hand is exposed to steam, flames, or hot surfaces or liquids. Adults usually get thermal burns from being exposed to fire.

Thermal

Did You Know? Burns account for the primary diagnosis in over 400,000 visits to the

ER each year. Work-related burns account for 20-25% of all serious burns.SAMPLE



ElectricalElectrical burns occur when electricity travels through the body. Electricity can burn skin, muscles, and organs. Electrical burns can be caused by a short in a wire, energized machinery, and even lightning, if you are working outdoors.

Did You Know? The organs that are most commonly damaged by electricity

include the heart, kidneys, bones and muscles, and the nervous system. SAMPLE



ChemicalWhen your hands come into contact with a corrosive chemical or an irritant such as an acid or a base, chemical burns can be a result. Chemical burns can happen when you’re working with battery acid, bleach, or ammonia.

A base is a substance that releases hydroxide ions. They

are usually thought of as the chemical opposite of acids because they can neutralize them.SAMPLE



MSDsMusculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries in the joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves, tendons, or the structures that support the limbs, neck, and back. Force, repetition, and awkward posture can all lead to fatigue in your body’s system; when this fatigue becomes too much for the body’s recovery system, an MSD develops. We will discuss MSDs in more detail later in our training.

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HAVSHand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is a result of prolonged exposure of the hands and forearms to vibrations. This disorder has the potential to cause permanent damage to your fingers, hands, and arms if left untreated.

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HAVS begins with tingling and numbness in your fingers. Eventually, your fingers will become white and swollen when cold and turn red and painful when they warm up. Your ability to complete tasks that require fine motor skills will decrease as the feeling and dexterity in your fingers diminishes and they lose strength and the ability to grip objects.

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Sources of vibration on the worksite can include jack hammers, pneumatic drills, asphalt breakers, chain saws, sanders, grinders, and lawnmowers.

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AmputationsAs you may know, an amputation is when a part of your body becomes detached, either through traumatic injury or medical procedures. Accidental amputations can happen either through cutting or tearing. Although you can accidentally amputate an entire limb, fingers are most often the victims of these kinds of injuries.

Did You Know? The most common partial hand amputation is the loss of one or more fingers. 61,000 people experience finger

amputations each year.

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The difference between an amputation and an avulsion is the kind of tissue involved. While amputations include the loss of the bone, avulsion is the cutting, tearing, or forcible separation of soft tissue — that is, skin and muscle.

Avulsion

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Examples of avulsion include slicing off the pad of one of your fingers with a box cutter or shearing off skin from the palm of your hand with a grinder. The most extreme example of avulsion is degloving. This is when the skin is completely stripped from a part or all of your hand. Rings are notorious for causing degloving of the finger.

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Reporting an InjuryEmployers are required to keep records of work-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. An injury is considered recordable if it meets any of the following criteria:• It results in death• The worker misses days of work• The worker’s duties are restricted • The worker transfers jobs because of the injury• Medical treatment beyond first aid was given• There was a loss of consciousness• A significant injury or illness has been diagnosed by a

licensed healthcare professional

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While a simple cut or abrasion would likely not count as a recordable injury, a deep laceration that needs stitches would. In fact, all of the injuries we’ve discussed could be considered recordable. Report any injuries to your employer right away so you can receive proper treatment and they can meet their requirement for recording it.

Did the employee experience

an injury or illness?

Is the injury or illness

work-related?

Is the injury or illness a new case?

Does the injury or illness meet the general recording criteria or the application to specific cases?

Update the previously-recorded

injury or illness entry if necessary

Do notrecord the

injury or illness

NO

NO

NO

NO

YES

Record theinjury or

illness

YES

YES

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Safe Operations

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In this section, we will discuss safe work practices that will help you avoid the injuries we just learned about. These include the hierarchy of controls, lockout/tagout, machine guarding, and ergonomics.

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Hierarchy Of Controls The hierarchy of controls is a system that illustrates the best ways to remove or protect workers from hazards on jobsites. The process goes as follows:

• Elimination• Substitution• Engineering Controls• Administrative Controls• PPE

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Elimination and substitution go hand in hand. Avoiding the risk of hand injury by avoiding hazardous tools or procedures is always best. Although certain machines or tools are more effective than others, if one is safest, you should always use it. Upgrading equipment that may be outdated or damaged is also a way to use substitution to safeguard employees.

Elimination or Substitution

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Properly identifying hazardous machinery and using guards is essential to hand safety. We will discuss machine guarding a little later, but take note that it is an effective engineering control. Any improvements or upgrades to existing machinery would also be an engineering control.

Engineering Controls

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Administrative controls can also help workers avoid exposure to hazards. Generally speaking, these will be established according to regulation, but management should make sure that employees are familiar with such policies and how they apply to the workplace. Administrative controls include written policies concerning schedules and supervision.

Administrative Controls

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Safety culture has a significant effect on the attitudes of workers toward proper procedures. If protocol is frequently ignored or treated as a nuisance, employees are more likely to ignore it and put themselves and others at greater risk. Conversely, withappropriate respect for safety procedures, incoming and veteran workers will make safety their top priority. This may requireretraining of employees at regular intervals, because it is easy to become more complacent without realizing it. SAMPLE



PPE is the final step in the hierarchy of controls. When working in a lab, there are extensive procedures for putting on and taking off PPE. For the purposes of this training, we have dedicated another section to the proper use and care of PPE.

PPE

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Pre-Shift InspectionSafe operations begin with a hazard assessment before work begins. Identify dangers that could lead to hand injuries and decide the best way to eliminate, control, or otherwise protect workers against these hazards.

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Signs & LabelsEmployers and manufacturers are required to have warning labels and informational decals located on machines and in work areas. These are not just for show or a one-time reference; they have everything to do with safe operations. Keep them clean and replace them if they are missing, damaged, or illegible.

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ChemicalsThere are several ways you can be exposed to hazardous materials. One of them is cutaneous — that is, absorption through the skin. When working with chemicals or other hazardous materials, always use the proper PPE, including gloves that will adequately protect your hands from irritation and burns. We will discuss gloves and PPE a little later in today’s training.

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Chemicals that are corrosive, flammable, or present irritant hazards should be treated with extra care. Consult any labels, pictograms, or Safety Data Sheets that accompany the chemicals.

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SDSs (formerly MSDSs) should be present at any worksite where employees are working with chemicals. They contain detailed information about the substance you may be working with. Always consult an SDS before beginning a task. It will tell you what kind of chemical it is, the hazards associated with it, and what kind of PPE to use in order to protect yourself.

Safety Data Sheets

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Lockout/Tagout

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When machinery is being serviced of maintained, an unexpected startup or release of stored energy can cause serious injury to your hands. Lockout/tagout procedures isolate or control electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, and thermal energies, all of which pose a hazard.

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There are two primary systems used to isolate a machine from its power source. One is by locking out the source of energy, and the second is by tagging out the source if a lockout system cannot be achieved. To begin, let’s talk about what LOTO means.

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Lockout is the placement of a lockout device on an energy-isolating device, in accordance with an established procedure. This ensures that the energy-isolating device and the equipment being controlled cannot be operated until the lockout device is removed.

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The lockout procedure is achieved by using a lockout device or any tool that uses positive means (such as a lock, blank flanges, and bolted slip blinds) to hold an energy-isolating device in a safe position. As a result, this prevents the energization of machinery or equipment.

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Tagout is when a device, or “tag,” is placed on an energy-isolating device or piece of equipment. The tag is meant to alert workers that the equipment must not be operated until the tagout device is removed by an authorized person.

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The tag should be legible and placed in plain sight. When possible, tags should be made of a material that will not deteriorate or become illegible due to environmental conditions. A tag cannot fulfil its role in site safety if it is unnoticed or if it cannot be read or understood.

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An energy-isolating device physically prevents the transmission or release of energy to machinery. These could take be a manually-operated electrical circuit breaker, a disconnect switch, a manually-operated switch, a line valve, a block, or any similar device. Push buttons, selector switches, and other control circuit-type devices are not energy-isolating devices.

Energy-Isolating Devices

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To be safe, it is always best to use both a lockout and a tagout device whenever possible. A tag alone will never provide the physical protection of a lock, and a lock will never be as eye-catching and informative as a tag.

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Using both a lock and a tag solves this problem. They provide the secure physical protection of the lock, as well as the visibility of the tag to warn that the device is temporarily inoperable.

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Studies show that compliance with LOTO standards prevent an estimated

120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries each year. So, then, ask yourself: is non-compliance worth the risk?

Don’t perform any service or maintenance on a machine or equipment until you first understand the proper LOTO procedures and your company has demonstrated full compliance with all LOTO procedures. Never operate any energy-isolating devices when they are locked or tagged out.

Did You Know?

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Machine Guarding

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There are many reasons that hand injuries occur around machinery. Workers may try to remove materials from a jammed machine, or they may reach into an operating machine when they mistakenly think it is clear to do so. These injuries can be prevented with proper machine guarding and training.SAMPLE



There are numerous types of machine guards that can be used to protect workers. We will not go into them here. For the sake of this training, we will briefly touch on primary guards and secondary guards. Ultimately, it is your responsibility to know what kind of guards your machine has and ensure you know how to utilize it correctly.

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Primary guards are to be used first, as they tend to be more convenient for the operator. Examples include fixed and adjustable guards that allow the operator to be right next to the point of operation and carefully watch the work being done. Secondary guards tend to keep operators away from the point of operation. Examples include gates and barriers.

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No matter which type of guard is used, it must prevent the worker’s body and clothing from coming in contact with the machine’s operating components. Machine guards should be securely attached, not easily removed, and made of durable materials.

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Guards have been designed to protect workers from the point of operation, moving parts, and pinch points. These, along with flying debris, are the greatest hazards to anyone in the area. Always use the guards that have been set in place by the manufacturer. If there are any issues or questions with a guard, contact the manufacturer and consult them.

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Guards should not create new hazards. They should be free of shear points, jagged edges, or unfinished surfaces. Also, they should not block vision without having another indicator.

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In fact, machine guards shouldn’t interfere with daily operations at all. If employees feel that guards hinder their work, it is more likely they will remove the guard. Whenever guards are used, they should allow you to work comfortably and with confidence.

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It is important to emphasize that the guards must never be removed while the machine is in use. Also, guards must not be tampered with in any way.

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There are three areas on all machines that need to be protected and watched carefully. Those are the point of operation, power transmission apparatus, and moving parts.

Focus Areas

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The point of operation is the area where work is done on material- in other words, where the cutting, pressing, drilling, bending, punching, or other operations are performed. This area must be guarded for the protection of the operator.

Point of Operation

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Point of operation guards are usually utilized whenever there is cutting, shaping, boring, or forming taking place. Hand and power tools are great examples of point of operation guards.

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Guards used at the point of operation can be fixed, adjustable, or self-adjusting. Whichever guard your company uses, inspect it before each use. If you find that a guard is missing or damaged, replace or fix it according the manufacturer's specifications.

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Power Transmission ApparatusA power transmission apparatus (PTA) is a system that contains all of the mechanical components to transmit energy throughout the machine and perform the work to be done.

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PTAs contain flywheels, pulleys, belts, connecting rods, couplings, cams, spindles, chains, cranks, and gears. These components need to be protected so they don’t come in contact with fingers and hand while the machine is operating.

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Many machines have moving parts that, if not guarded correctly, can present a hazard for everyone working on or near the instrument. Fingers, loose gloves or clothing, and other objects can get caught in the machine. This can lead to serious injuries, and even death.

Moving Parts

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Moving parts are especially hazardous to work around, especially those that use rotating, reciprocating, or transversion motions. Those motions can cut, punch, shear, and bend. As you can imagine, when a machine does this to a worker’s fingers or hand, it causes significant injury up to and including amputation.

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Ergonomics

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Ergonomics has been receiving a lot of attention over the past few years. Those who use power tools are especially prone to injuries or conditions brought about by poor ergonomics. This is due to the repetitive nature of the work, the vibration you areexposed to, and the force necessary to balance and control the power tool.

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As we discussed earlier, Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) target soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and cartilage) and the nervous system. They can be painful and hinder your ability to perform tasks at work and even at home.

AVERAGE RECOVERY TIME

18 DAYS 17 DAYS

ARM WRIST

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With so many different muscles, tendons, and nerves, human hands are especially susceptible to MSDs. Although we can’t tell you if you have an MSD, there are some early signs and symptoms you can watch for, including (but not limited to) the following:• Reduced range of motion• Pain• Tingling• Numbness

• Stiffness

• Muscle spasms

• Pain

• Aches

• Tingling

• Swelling

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome A common MSD that affects the hands is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. This disorder causes numbness, tingling, and other discomfort in your hands, fingers, and arms. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when there is pressure being applied for extended periods of time to the nerve located in the middle of your wrist.

Did You Know?On average, it takes 28 to 30 days for a worker to recover from carpal tunnel

syndrome. That’s longer than the time needed to recover from amputation and fractures.SAMPLE



This disorder is primarily caused by repetitive hand or wrist movements, especially when the wrist is bent at an awkward angle. This can happen in an office or industrial setting.

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A good way to limit the effects of carpal tunnel while typing is to use a wrist support. This can come in the form of a wrist pad that you can purchase at nearly any store. You can also limit the awkward angle of you wrists by making sure your desk and chair allow your arms to lay flat at a 90-degree angle from your elbow to the keyboard.

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As we mentioned earlier, carpal tunnel syndrome isn’t limited to office workers. Material handling and assembly line work both put your hands and wrists at risk for MSDs.

Did You Know?Assembly line workers are three times more likely to get carpal tunnel syndrome

than workers who frequently type on computers.

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TendinitisTendinitis (also spelled tendonitis) occurs when tendons in your wrist or hand become irritated and inflamed. Since most of the muscles in your hands and fingers are controlled by tendons that pass through the wrist, repetitive or physically demanding work can cause tendinitis over time. This makes it hard to grasp things and causes pain.

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PreventionPreventing MSDs can be accomplished through substitution- for example, using power tools instead of manual tools. Substituting a more efficient tool would reduce the hand force required to complete the task, as well as the amount of repetitive motion.

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Additionally, there are now a number of ergonomically correct tools and handles available. These are specifically designed to conform to your hand, cushion vibration, and otherwise reduce stress on your hands and wrists.

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An administrative control for MSDs that employers could implement is regular breaks. It cannot be stated enough how beneficial it is to stop and take breaks when needed. Rotating assigned tasks regularly also decreases workers’ exposure to ergonomic hazards.SAMPLE



Using tools requires that you be aware of the effects on your hands and wrists and practice preventive ergonomic habits. Evenstretching can be a great supplementary activity that helps lessen the strain placed on the hands, wrists, and arms. Over the next few slides, we will cover specific stretches that will help alleviate stress in both the physical and mental sense.

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Stretching has an invaluable effect on the body. Arms, hands, and wrists can benefit from stretching, as it reduces the risk of issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome. These stretches can even be done at an office desk or out in the work field.

Stretches

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Spread the fingers of both hands far apart. Hold for five seconds. Relax and repeat. Next, gently pull the right thumb down and out with the left hand. Hold for five seconds. Relax and repeat, then do the same stretch for the left thumb.

Hands

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Next, stretch your wrists. With both arms stretched outward, draw a circle with your fingertips. Repeat five times in both directions (clockwise and counter-clockwise).

Wrists

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Don’t forget your forearms. The tendons in your fingers and hand don’t stop at the wrist—they run into the forearm and up to the elbow. First, hold the right arm straight out in front of you with the elbow straight and palm down. Bend your wrist downward with the left hand to get a good stretch over the top of your forearm. Hold for five seconds, relax, and repeat. Do the same stretch for the other arm.

Forearms

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Next, hold both arms straight out in front of you, lace your fingers together, and press your palms out and away from your body. You should feel the stretch on the underside of your forearm. Hold for five seconds and relax. Repeat.

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Proper ClothingLoose clothing and long hair always pose a risk of being sucked into moving parts. Of special concern for hand safety is improperly-fitted gloves and rings.

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While gloves are meant to protect your hands, ill-fitting ones can actually pose a hazard. As we will discuss shortly, there are many different kinds of gloves, which are made out of various materials, in a number of sizes and lengths. Never wear gloves that could be caught in moving parts. Also, wearing ill-fitting gloves can affect dexterity, which discourages workers from using them in the future.

Lhsfna.org

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RingsWearing a typical ring in a work environment is dangerous and can result in serious injury and amputation. Welding, electrical work, and even climbing a ladder can all become exponentially more dangerous when wearing a ring.

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Metal rings are a conductive material. This makes anyone wearing a ring near energized machinery at risk for electrical burns, as well as electrocution. Likewise, metal rings can become super-heated during welding operations, resulting in burns. Additionally, if a ring is caught in moving parts or even on the edge of a ladder when you fall, breaks, avulsion, or amputation can occur.

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If you must wear a ring, wear a silicon one rather than traditional metal. When caught, a silicon ring will break, leaving your finger intact. Recent years have seen increasing popularity in tattoo rings. This would be a safe alternative to metal, as well.

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INTRODUCTION COMMON INJURIES SAFE OPERATIONS PPE HAZARDS CONCLUSION

PPE (Gloves)

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In many situations, hands are protected in slightly different ways than other parts of the body. Employers must ensure that you are given proper PPE for your hands to protect against the injuries we discussed earlier.

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The most common type of personal protective equipment (PPE) for hands is, of course, gloves. As with all equipment, these should be inspected for holes or cuts before each use. You should also be sure that the material is not deformed or its integrity compromised in any way. If you find your gloves are damaged or showing signs of wear, replace them immediately. Always follow the manufacturer guidelines on how to wear and properly use your gloves.

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Here are some factors to keep in mind as you choose the type of protective gloves you will be using for your workplace:

• Cut levels

• Puncture resistance

• Abrasion and tear resistance

• Size and comfort

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Cut LevelsANSI has established a system that grades cut-resistant materials, including those used in gloves. There are nine cut levels, illustrated here. A cut level is determined by how much weight (measured in grams) is needed to cut through the material using a 20-millimeter blade.

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Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that the highest cut level is the safest for all situations. Some gloves are best suited for specific jobs. With this in mind, let’s go over some common types of gloves you may use on your worksite.

HAZARD TYPE OF GLOVESparks, moderate heat,

blows, chips, rough objectsAramid fiber & other

synthetic materials; leather

HeatAluminized fabrics of nylon, rayon, asbestos,

wool, or glass

Knife blades, other sharp instruments

Metal mesh (stainless steel), engineered yams, aramids & ultra-high molecular weight

polyethylene, dyneema/HPPE

Electric shocks & burns Insulated material (often made of rubber)

Abrasions & cuts

Cotton with aramid fiber, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene or nylon with NR, NBR,

PU or vinyl coatings

Handling slippery objects or materials

Unsupported NBR, supported NBR, neoprene with rough finish

Welding, rough surfaces General purpose, synthetic, leatherSAMPLE



Puncture ResistancePuncture and needle resistance must also be taken into consideration when choosing hand PPE. This rating is measured by the maximum force (in Newtons) required to puncture a piece of material with a probe.

Did You Know?ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 standards addresses the classification and

testing of hand protection as it relates to cut, puncture, and abrasion resistance. SAMPLE



There are five levels of puncture resistance, with 1 being the least resistant and 5 being the most resistant. Of course, real-life situations will vary, but the testing does give a good benchmark for puncture resistance.

LEVEL 1 10-19 N

LEVEL 2 20-59 N

LEVEL 3 60-99 N

LEVEL 4 100-149 N

LEVEL 5 105+ NSAMPLE



Abrasion & Tear ResistanceWhile there is no standardized rating system for abrasion and tear resistance, gloves need to hold up well to these hazards. If a glove is worn through too quickly, it exposes your hand to cuts, scrapes, and punctures. The higher the abrasion and tear resistance of the gloves, the safer your hands will be.

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Impact Protection

Did You Know?One cubic inch of human bone can withstand the weight of five standard

pickup trucks, give or take a few pounds.

Image Courtesy of Gulf Safety Equipments Trading

ANSI/ISEA 138 classifies different levels of impact protection offered by gloves. It outlines the requirements for testing for impact resistance, which must be done by a third party. There are three levels of impact resistance, with 1 being the lowest and 3 being the most resistant.

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Impact-resistant gloves are especially useful for workers in the oil and gas industries, where heavy equipment such as pipes, cables, and hoses pose a crush hazard. In fact, impact protection can lessen the risk of injury in several situations, including the following:• Being struck by moving objects (including swinging, flying, or falling)• Rig site clearing• Handling heavy materials• Working near pinch points

< 9 kNLEVEL 1

< 6.5 kN

LEVEL 2< 4 kNLEVEL 3

Measured as kilonewtons (about 100 kg of load) transferred through the glove and to the hand.SAMPLE



Sizing GlovesNo matter what type of glove you use, proper sizing is important. Having gloves that fit correctly will give you the best protection. If your gloves are too small, they can limit blood circulation to your fingers and restrict movement. On the other hand, if the gloves are too big, they may limit your dexterity or slip off at an inopportune moment.

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Your glove size is the measurement (in inches) around the palm of your dominant hand. If the gloves your employer uses have numbered sizes, the measurement of your palm will correlate with the size of glove you should use.

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You should also consider the length of glove you will need. Glove length can vary depending on the task you perform. For example, if there is a high probability of splash, you will need the extra protection of a glove that extends up your arm and possibly over your elbow. Always use the correct size and length of glove; failing to do so can lead to injury.

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Other PropertiesPerhaps surprisingly, there are more properties to consider when it comes to gloves. While there are no standards governing such properties, it is important to ensure the gloves you use on the job offer all the safety properties you need to stay safe and work efficiently. We will go over the following properties:• Grip• Dexterity• Comfort• Temperature

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GripWe have mentioned this before, but being able to firmly grip tools, parts, and other objects is essential not only to the job, but to your safety. Poor grip can lead to muscle fatigue and MSDs, and a dropped tool can have unfortunate consequences for someone working below you.

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Oils, liquids, mud, and even dust can all impair your grip in different ways. Because your worksite and duties will vary, and because your preferences may differ from a coworker’s, use gloves with a wide range of grip options.

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DexterityGood dexterity is essential when doing work that requires repetitive motions, handling small parts, or using intricate tools. As we’ve discussed, gloves that fit too tightly or too loosely can limit hand movement. This leads to frustration and possible removal of the gloves, leaving your hands vulnerable.

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ComfortThe comfort of your work gloves may seem like a silly thing to take into consideration. However, when you realize you will be wearing them throughout your shift — possibly as long as eight or ten hours at a time — it becomes clear that gloves should be comfortable.

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For example, gloves that retain heat can cause sweaty hands, which can lead to skin irritation and circulation issues. Furthermore, as we’ve discussed, ill-fitting gloves are not only uncomfortable- they are hazardous to work with.

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TemperatureEven when working indoors, conditions can be less than ideal. Temperatures can vary widely in plants and warehouses, depending on where you will be working. For example, if you are working in the receiving department, you may experience severe cold; alternately, workers near furnaces or large machines may experience an overly warm environment. Some gloves have warm- and cold-weather versions; use these, if possible. Switch out the gloves you are wearing if you go from one extreme to the other.

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Glove Types

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There is such a wide variety of occupational hazards that choosing the right type of glove is essential. You must understand the hazard that you will be dealing with in order to choose the right type of glove, because not all gloves are created equal. What might protect you from one hazard may not protect you from another.

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In order to help you choose the right glove, we will talk about several types of gloves and their uses and limitations, so you know which one will best protect against the hazards you work with.

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Cotton & FabricFabric gloves protect against dirt, slivers, and abrasions or chafing, but not much else. They do not provide protection from rough or sharp objects.

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Coated fabric gloves are usually made of cotton flannel, with napping on one side. They are coated with plastic on the un-napped side, which makes them more resilient and provides slip resistance. These gloves are mostly used to handle abrasive surfaces, such as bricks and wire. While they can be used in labs, you should check with the manufacturer to determine the effectiveness against the specific chemicals you’ll be handling.

Coated Fabric

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The downside to coated fabric gloves is that they tend to trap heat, resulting in sweaty, itchy hands. Such discomfort may influence a worker’s decision to wear the gloves in the future.

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Synthetic gloves are made of various materials, including plastic and synthetic rubber. Most offer protection against heat and cold and are cut- and abrasion-resistant. They work well when cleaning or working with oils and solvents. Some may withstand diluted acids, but they won’t stand up well against alkalis. Check with the manufacturer to see what your specific glove can withstand.

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LeatherLeather gloves protect against sparks, moderate heat, blows, chips, and rough objects. Highly durable and versatile, leather gloves are a favorite for industrial and construction workers, as well as landscapers and the everyday do-it-yourself layman.

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Leather gloves protect against the cold, making them a good choice if you’re working outdoors. The flip side of this is, of course, possible discomfort and hot, sweaty hands if you wear leather gloves during the summer months. They offer some protection against cuts and abrasions, but they are not cut-proof, nor will they hold up against penetrating objects.

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Aluminized gloves, made of aluminum material, are reflective and provide insulating protection against sparks or small flames. However, many aluminized gloves require an insert of other synthetic materials in order to work best against heat and cold. Keep in mind, asbestos inserts are prohibited, so other materials must be used.

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KevlarKevlar gloves are cut- and abrasion-resistant. They also highly heat-resistant and will protect your hands against the cold. However, there are a few drawbacks. Kevlar gloves are sensitive to ultra-violet light, which can cause them to wear out relatively quickly when used outdoors. They also absorb moisture, which can compromise their strength. Lastly, Kevlar gloves tend to be rather bulky, which reduces your dexterity.

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Chemical-resistant gloves are made from different kinds of rubber materials. These materials can be blended or laminated for better performance. Generally, the thicker the glove, the greater the chemical resistance; however, thick gloves could impair grip and have a negative impact on safety. Chemical-resistant gloves can be made of butyl, natural latex or rubber, neoprene, and nitrile.

Chemical-Resistant Gloves

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Butyl is a synthetic rubber material that can protect against a wide variety of chemicals, such as peroxide, rocket fuels, highly corrosive acids, strong bases, alcohols, and a few others. Butyl gloves also resist oxidation, ozone corrosion, and abrasion. However, they do not perform well with aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons or halogenated solvents.

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Natural rubber gloves, or latex gloves, are comfortable, which makes them a popular general-purpose choice. They have good tensile strength, elasticity, and temperature resistance, and can resist abrasions caused by grinding and polishing. In addition to this, they can protect your hands against many water solutions of acids, alkalis, salts, and ketones. They are also non-conductive.

Natural Latex or Rubber

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Unfortunately, latex is known to cause allergic reactions in many individuals, so if you choose to use this type of glove, be sure that your skin can handle the material. Otherwise, hypoallergenic gloves, glove liners, and powderless gloves are possible alternatives.

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Neoprene gloves are made of synthetic rubber and offer good pliability. They have a high density and, subsequently, are tear-resistant. They protect against hydraulic fluid, gasoline, alcohols, organic acids and alkalis, and are generally more chemically resistant than regular rubber gloves.

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Nitrile gloves are made of a copolymer, which provides protection from chlorinated solvents. Nitrile gloves stand up to heavy use, even after prolonged exposure to substances that cause other glove types to deteriorate. They offer protection when working with oils, greases, acids, and caustic substances. However, they are not recommended for use with strong oxidizing agents, aromatic solvents, ketones, or acetates.

Nitrile

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Nitrile gloves are soft, comfortable, and snug. They also have good gripping capabilities, even when wet. Although they are thin, nitrile gloves are strong and offer some puncture resistance.

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Care & Maintenance of GlovesProperly caring for your gloves can maximize their usefulness. Although a longer life for gloves does save money, do not give in to the temptation to clean and reuse disposable gloves; always throw them away after each use.

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As we mentioned earlier, protective gloves, no matter the material, should always be inspected for punctures and tears before use. Be cautious of even the smallest pinholes, which could allow contaminants to enter. For nitrile, neoprene, or rubber gloves, a foolproof method to test for holes is to fill the glove with water and roll it up from the cuff; if leaks appear, then the gloves are no good.

Inspection

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Additionally, if gloves are discolored or stiff, this could be an indication of deficiencies. If you find damage on either the outside or the inside of your gloves, or anything that compromises their protective qualities, you should throw them out and replace them.

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Cleaning & WashingGloves that are made of leather, cotton, and synthetics should be cleaned regularly. Some glove types can hold up against laundering; in fact, leather and cotton can both be commercially laundered with minimum shrinkage or damage.

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Synthetics need a little more care and are better off if you hand wash them. Taking this extra effort will not only extend the life of the glove, but slow permeation and contamination from chemicals if done throughout your shift.

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Washing your gloves can be almost as easy as washing your hands. Simply run them under warm water. If water alone isn’t enough to get the gloves clean, soap or solvents may be used. However, any chemicals or solvents should be evaluated for compatibility before use.

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Before storing your gloves at the end of the day, give them a final wash and dry them with a clean cloth. Stock your gloves in awell-ventilated location, away from direct sunlight. Do not place other items on top of the gloves; this can distort their shape. SAMPLE



Be aware of the hazards that surround you, and know what kind of material will best protect you from those hazards. Gloves can only achieve that for which they are designed, and can’t protect against misuse or abuse. Mistreating gloves can endanger your safety and put those working around you at risk. Always use the right gloves, inspect them thoroughly, and care for them properly.

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Hazards

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Statistics have shown that there are hand hazards on every worksite, even during normal working conditions. Most injuries are due to several basic hazards. Over the next several slides, we will discuss some common hazards to your hands.

PINCH POINTS

SHEAR POINTS

CRUSH POINTS

MOVING PARTS

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Pinch PointsA pinch point is a place where two moving parts converge. Pinch points can also occur when a rotating part and a fixed part come in contact with each other. Fingers or hands caught in pinch points can easily be crushed, entangled, or worse.

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A transmission belt is an example of a pinch point, leading in to another type that we will discuss. Think of the mechanism of a belt and how the belt and pulley operate. Pinch points can occur when the rotating belt comes in contact with the unmoving structure of the machine or where the rotating pullies are positioned close together.

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Shear or Cutting PointsSimilar to pinch points, shear points occur when the edges of two machine parts move across each other so closely that anything caught at the pinch point is cut. A shear or cutting point can be made up of two moving parts, or one part that moves and one that is stationary.

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Usually, the parts are moving so quickly that suffering an injury is inevitable if your hand gets caught. Injuries associated with shear or cutting points include lacerations, fractures, and amputations.

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Crush PointsCrush points are a result of two parts or objects moving toward each other and colliding. Unlike shear or pinch points, they do not move across or near each other. A crush point can occur when connecting trailer hitches or when machines have lids or gates.

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Many machines have moving parts that, if not guarded correctly, can present a hazard for everyone working on or nearby the machine. While any part of a machine that moves can cause hand injuries, there are two specific movements we will go over today:• Rotating• Reciprocating

Moving Parts

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RotatingRotating parts operate by moving in a circular motion. Rotating parts, including belts, PTAs, and gears, are capable of grabbing gloves or hands and pulling them into pinch points, which can cause crushing injuries such as fractures. The rotating blades on a saw can cause lacerations and amputations.

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ReciprocatingReciprocating parts operate by moving in a linear back-and-forth or up-and-down motion. They can be found in car engines, pumps, and saws. The rapid movement can cause cuts, abrasions, and even amputations.

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ChemicalsHands are usually the point of contact for hazardous chemicals that can either damage your skin directly or be absorbed through the skin and cause internal health issues. Chemical burns are one of the more severe injuries you can fall victim to. Furthermore, acids, caustics, and other strong chemicals can cause burns.

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InjectionHigh-pressure equipment, such as hydraulic lines or high-pressure grease guns, can cause serious injuries. A leak the size of a pinhole can inject fluid under your skin at the rate of 1200 psi. This is enough to drive fluid through protective clothing, including gloves, and into your skin, leading to poisoning, infection, and even death.

Did You Know?Fluid forced through a pinhole-sized leak can exceed 600 feet per second (250 meters per second). This is

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ColdWhen the body is exposed to cold temperatures, it responds by restricting blood flow to the extremities — the feet and hands. When you also consider that hands lose heat quickly due to the high surface area of the skin, it’s not surprising that hands are especially susceptible to the cold. Cold hands can become numb, causing a loss of grip, and can even become frost-bitten.

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HeatWorkers who are performing hot work such as welding, cutting, and brazing are at risk of thermal burns. Those working with or near boilers or steam piping are also at risk. Additionally, if you are working on or around machines that haven’t been locked out, you run the risk of electrical burns.

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In addition to using the proper gloves for the situation, workers can also use insulated tool handles to protect their hands. Hot surfaces, such as machinery or welds, should always be given sufficient time to cool before handling.

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Human FactorsThere are factors that can affect people to a point where they should not operate any machines. Take a close look at these, and understand there could be more. If you feel that you are unable to safely work, you should abstain to protect yourself and those around you.

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FatigueFatigue is a common distraction that may not always lead to injury, but can reduce efficiency. Fatigue can result from working too many hours, lack of sleep, hunger, or monotonous, repetitive work. When an operator shows signs of fatigue, they should be relieved to get rest or exercise to refresh their minds.

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Stress can also become a major distraction. Operators under emotional stress may not be able to stay focused. If you’re feeling extremely angry or upset, it would be wise to wait to operate until emotional stability is restored.

Emotional & Physical Health

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Likewise, if you are suffering from health problems that affect your ability to work, reason, and balance, you should not be allowed near machinery. Even cold medicine can compromise your alertness. If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs, you should obtain medical advice on whether it is okay to work around machinery.

Consult the doctor before operating heavy machinery or returning to work while taking this medication

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DistractionsLastly, distractions have become a common catalyst for accidents in the workplace. Staying focused on the job can prevent injuries, not to mention save time and money. Never use any device for anything other than the job at hand. When workers do something they know is against company rules, they choose to take their lives into their own hands.

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The following investigated accident profiles are real. In some cases, two or three similar accidents have been combined for the purpose of illustrating key safety principles. They will show just how quickly things can go wrong if equipment and PPE are usedincorrectly. Add to that a few safety procedures that were ignored, and injuries or fatalities were the result. SAMPLE



Accident #1: Employee #1 was working with tin ducting, which is notorious for having sharp edges. At the time of the incident, he was attaching two separate duct lines. After experiencing some difficulty with attachment, he put his hand in one side to maneuver the duct. At that point, the movement of the duct caused the line to shift and fall. The sharp edge of the duct line amputated two of Employee #1’s fingers as it fell. What went wrong?SAMPLE



Employee #1 had clearly not taken the time to choose the proper gloves and hand protection for the job at hand. He should have been using gloves that offered him protection from lacerations or punctures while working with sharp objects.

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There are a variety of gloves that can protect you from injuries. You should always know the job you are working and the hazardsassociated with it so that you and your employer can choose the right gloves to keep you safe from harm. Just a few extra minutes of selecting and donning the correct gloves could have saved Employee #1 from a debilitating injury.SAMPLE



Accident Profile #2: Employee #1 was welding a steel bench when his welding gun came in contact with his gloved hand. The gun was hot enough to burn through the glove and puncture Employee #1’s finger. His finger was infected the next day, and he had to go to the hospital. He was in the hospital for four days and had to have surgery preformed to save his finger. Employee #1 lost most of his mobility and sensation in that finger. What went wrong?

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Although Employee #1 was wearing gloves, they were not enough to keep his finger from being burned when it came in contact with the extremely hot tip of the welding gun. When using hot equipment, you must always be aware of the placement of the equipment and your hands as you operate. Never touch a weld or any other hot material until it has had plenty of time to cool.

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Accident Profile #3: Employee #1 worked with a die cutter at a paper processing plant and was adjusting the guides on the outgoing side of the machine after her lunch break. Employee #2, unaware that Employee #1 had returned, switched on the machine. Employee #1’s hand was caught in the cutting blades and amputated. What went wrong?

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Employee #1 didn’t lock out or tag out her machine as she made adjustments. If Employee #2 had been aware that the machine was being adjusted, he wouldn’t have turned it on. This lack of communication and awareness cost Employee #1 her hand and eventually her job, as she was unable to continue working.

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Accident Profile #4: Employee #1 was working near a machine when it jammed. He was able to locate the jam and reached in to clear it without thinking. Once the obstruction was removed, the machine sprang back to life. Employee #1’s glove and coat sleeve became caught in the rotating parts. His right hand was pulled into the machine, resulting in his hand and arm being degloved. What went wrong?

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Loose clothing and rotating parts don’t mix. Employee #1 should have been more aware of the rotating parts or worn sleeves that weren’t so loose. Additionally, his gloves were ill-fitting, allowing for the material to be sucked into the pinch point. An investigation found that Employee #1 had never received training on proper lockout/tagout. Additionally, the machine guards had been removed from the equipment. Both of these oversights on the employer’s part nearly cost Employee #1 his life.

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Conclusion

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Accidents can happen on any given day and at any worksite. There are so many situations that can cause injury or even death on the job, and while we cannot go over them all here, it is important you take the time to analyze the potential hazards each task, site, or machine presents.

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Your hands are your most versatile tool, but they are also the most complicated and delicate. Take proper precautions, use the correct gloves, and always be aware of the hazards that surround you.

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Safety is everyone’s responsibility. Follow all safe work practices and safety regulations applicable to your workplace. When in doubt, take the time to stop and consult your employer, the standards, the safety program, and equipment manufacturers. Good luck and stay safe! SAMPLE



Safety Provisions, Inc. | (360) 930-9247 | [email protected] | hardhattraining.com

All rights reserved. The Hard Hat Training Series is a registered trademark of Safety Provisions, Inc.

No parts of this training may be reproduced in any form, electronically or mechanically. Purchasers are allowed to print out the materials for classroom use (i.e. student manuals, exam, answer keys, etc.). Purchasers do have permission to modify the training program for specific training needs. The presentation or any portion of it, however, may not be resold, posted online, lent out, used to create another course, or the like.

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Welcome to the Hard Hat Training Series! SAMPLE · Welcome to the Hard Hat Training Series. Today, we will talk about hand safety. Hand injures are one of the leading causes of lost

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