Page 44 - Occupational Health & Safety, August 2018

HAND PROTECTION
preventative measures:
1. Provide PPE
Ensure workers are well equipped with personal protective equipment, such as gloves, that helps protect the hands from cuts, lacerations, chemical and thermal burns, electrical dangers, and more.
When selecting the type of protective glove for your employees, there are several important factors to consider that may vary based on industry. Not all gloves are made equal. For example, butyl gloves that are made of synthetic rubber to protect against chemical burns may not provide adequate protection against abrasions or cuts. Fab- ric gloves that protect against chafing may not be sufficient protec- tion for workers who require heat protection. That’s why it’s impor- tant for employers to think about the types of chemicals handled, grip requirements, size and comfort, thermal protection, abrasion and resistance requirements, and duration of contact. Remember also to consider how much of the hand needs to be protected—is only the hand exposed, or does the entire forearm need protection, as well?
2. Encourage Education and Set Expectations
Employers should offer education about the tools and machin- ery used frequently at the work site. Implement a training program to help employees get to know equipment features and the location of important buttons, such as the emergency off switch. A training program also can help highlight danger zones on equipment, such as hot spots and pinch points.
Employers also should hang a list of safety tips and workplace expectations in heavily trafficked areas, such as locker and break rooms. Remind employees to remove all rings, necklaces, earrings, and other jewelry before heading to the work site or onto the man- ufacturing floor, and to always wear gloves. Employees should al- ways stay focused while handling heavy machinery and tools; help them do so by minimizing distractions in areas where potentially dangerous equipment is being used.
3. Have an Open Door Policy
Employees should feel comfortable reporting safety issues they identify in the field to supervisors. Employers should often—if not always—be present and available. Remind employees that your door is always open to report possible safety issues immediately. If and when issues do arise, take it as an opportunity to schedule one- on-one time with each employee and review what happened, what could have prevented the problem, and any other safety procedures to remember. Open and honest communication between employee and supervisor is key when confronting safety issues head on, be- cause employees are the eyes and the ears in the field.
Dr. Amy Meister, DO, president of MedExpress Worksite Solutions, is responsible for MedExpress centers located in places of employ- ment. She has practiced medicine for 18 years, with a focus on acute and chronic condition management. She handles a full spectrum of diseases and transitions of care to ensure the right care, at the right place, at the right time.
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