Fits Like a Glove: Preventing Hand Injuries in Construction

Did you know that hand injuries are among the most common work injuries at home and work? I’m committed to bringing more attention to our hands to ensure we eradicate these unnecessary injuries. It seems unbalanced to me that something as precious as our hands, receives such little care and protection.

I challenge you to reflect on if you wore gloves the last time you were torqueing a wrench while working on your car. Did you wear gloves when cutting your grass or clearing branches from your yard? Did you wear gloves while repairing the wood fence in your backyard? Our homes feel like a safe haven, but often that takes our eye off the dangers that are inherently there. Here is a helpful list that I urge you to consider before you start your next task at home:

• Do I have the right tools for the job? If you don’t, then don’t complete the task until you do.
• Do I have enough time for the job right now? Am I rushed? Taking shortcuts due to time constraints is a major cause of injury.
• How could I get hurt? Envision the worst and protect yourself against it.
• Is this really a two person job? You know the answer to this, don’t try something alone!
• Have I inspected my work area for hazards and my tools?
• Are the tools equipped with the proper safe guards?
• Are my tools in good condition?
• Do I have the correct PPE (personal protective equipment)? Wear gloves, safety glasses, protective toe boots and a hard hat as the task dictates.

And lastly, check your fire extinguishers and your first aid kit, and consider an AED for your home.

At Gilbane, the safety actions of our employees and co-workers are driven from choice, not just from formal compliance. Like family, we look out for each other each day – at home, in the office and on our construction projects, we are committed to ensuring that everyone returns home safely each night.