Your hands are one of your most important tools when working in construction. They’re the ones that help you to carry and lift materials, to measure and cut wood, and to drill and screw things into place. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips on how to protect your hands while you’re on the job site.

Common hand injuries from construction work:

• Cuts and scrapes
• Chemical burns
• Infections
• Slip and fall injuries

Common hand injuries from long term construction work:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome: a condition that can be caused by repetitive motions of the hands and wrists. 
• Arthritis: a common condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. 
• Tendonitis: an inflammation of the tendons, which are the tissues that connect muscle to bone. 

How to Protect your Hands in Construction:

1. Wear the proper gloves: 

There are many different types of gloves available that are designed for specific tasks. If you’re not sure which type of glove is right for the job you’re doing, ask your supervisor or consult a safety professional. In general, however, you should look for gloves that are made of a tough material such as leather or Kevlar. These materials will help to protect your hands from sharp objects and from getting cut or scraped.

1. Be careful of the chemicals you’re using:

Many cleaning products, paints, and other construction materials contain harmful chemicals that can cause skin irritation or even burns. Always read the labels of any products you’re using and follow the instructions for safe use. 

1. Keep your hands clean and dry while you’re working:

This will help to prevent infection and will also keep your hands from getting too sweaty, which can lead to slips and falls. If you’re working with dirty or wet materials, be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands. And, if you take a break, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before starting work again.

Symptoms of hand problems:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Weakness
• Stiffness
• Pain
• Swelling

If you experience any symptoms of hand problems, it’s important to see a doctor so that you can get treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for preventing further damage to your hands. 

What to do if you injure yourself at work:

Seek medical attention as soon as possible. If the injury is serious, call 000 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room. Once you’ve seen a doctor, be sure to follow their instructions for care. This may include taking medication, doing physical therapy exercises, or wearing a splint or other type of support. 

Additionally, you may need to take some time off from work to recover. If this is the case, your doctor will provide you with a note that you can give to your employer. Also, be sure to report the incident to the appropriate person.

Remember, your hands are an essential part of your job, so take care of them! 

This Post Is Part Of A Series: 101 Toolbox Topic Ideas For The Construction Industry
Do you struggle to come up with toolbox talk ideas each week to discuss with your workers? Fear no more, Work Safety QLD is here to the rescue with 101 Free Toolbox Talk Ideas for the Construction Industry.