Monday, March 17, 2014

PPE Basics Hand Protection

Hand and arm injuries account for one third of all construction-related injuries. With proper use of job appropriate PPE, most of these injuries can be prevented, and there are many choices available that are far more comfortable and provide better dexterity and protection than the lightweight cotton or bulky leather gloves of the past. 

Different trades require different levels of protection from various hazards, and gloves should be chosen accordingly based on specific need. For example, rigging and demolition workers require gloves that offer greater resistance to cuts, punctures, and abrasions, while other trades may be may be more susceptible to chemical hazards, heat, or cold. When dexterity is particularly important, workers should wear gloves that allow them to perform intricate tasks without having to remove them. Vibration-dampening and impact resistant gloves are recommended for workers who operate equipment that can cause carpal tunnel syndrome and other cumulative trauma disorders such as jackhammers and pneumatic tools.

OSHA requires that employers supply proper hand protection and recommends ANSI standards as a guideline. PPE vendors may also refer to ASTM standards to assist customer selection.

To also read about Rigging Safety Guidelines.

About R. Baker & Son All Industrial Services

R. Baker & Son All Industrial Services, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) in business since 1935, is a premier specialized contractor operating in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico, with over one hundred employees and an exemplary safety record (we have been directly involved in nearly a dozen projects achieving OSHA VPP Star status). R. Baker & Son is financially strong, with bonding capabilities over $10 million. Capabilities include industrial and commercial demolition, rigging, machinery- and plant-moving, dismantling, decommissioning, plant and equipment relocation, interior demolition, selective demolition, warehousing, wrecking and razing, millwright, plant reconfigurations, heavy rigging, salvage, environmental services, remediation, decontamination, abatement, and investment and asset recovery.

R. Baker & Son All Industrial Services
1 Globe Court
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Phone: 732-222-3553
Fax: 732-450-0311