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709 Personal Protective Equipment
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Hazards Requiring Hand Protection

Most companies use some type of chemicals in their workplaces. Some of these chemicals are hazardous and require PPE to protect employees against toxic effects.

Make sure safety gloves are the correct type for the specific substance.

More than any other part of the body, our hands are most likely to come in contact with hazardous chemicals. Employees may be exposed to the chemical hazards listed below:

  • Absorption of harmful substances
  • Chemical burns
  • Rashes

However, hazardous chemicals are not the only worry. Employees may also be exposed to other hazards that could injure their hands including:

  • Cuts or lacerations
  • Abrasions
  • Punctures
  • Thermal burns
  • Harmful temperature extremes

Consequently, it's crucial that employers select and require employees to use appropriate hand protection when exposed to any of these hazards.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-4. More than any other part of the body, our hands are most likely to come in contact with _____.