Prevention

The vast majority of injuries can be prevented.

• To prevent hand injuries on the job
  
  
  • Look for hand hazards before an accident can happen.
    
    
  • Don't use your hands to wipe away debris in a machine, use a brush that is designed for that purpose.
    
    
  • Check your equipment and machinery before you start and after you finish. Be sure that it is in good operating condition.
    
    
  • Before you repair or clean machinery, be sure that the power is disconnected and follow all safety procedures.
    
    
  • Do not wear gloves, jewelry, or loose clothing when working near a machine with moving parts.
    
    
  • Wear the correct protective equipment-gloves, guards, forearm cuffs-for the work you are doing.
    
    
  • Be sure your gloves fit properly and are meant for the work you are doing.
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• Use appropriate safety equipment while playing sports to prevent or limit the extent of fractures.
  
  
  • Hand and wrist guards are appropriate when playing certain sports (rollerblading, lacrosse, hockey).
    
    
  • Sports that involve a ball (football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball) are more likely to cause hand injuries. Take special care when playing these games.
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• Practice household safety measures, especially with small children, to decrease the chances of all injuries, including those to the hands.
  
  
• Get timely medical evaluation and treatment to prevent the long-term disability of a hand injury.
  
  
• Avoid using your hands to punch, hit, or pound any objects in anger. Many injuries to the hands are self-inflicted in this manner.