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813 Construction Worksite Safety
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Hand Protection

Employers must select and require employees to use appropriate hand protection on construction sites when workers' hands are exposed to hazards.

Employers must ensure employees have appropriate hand protection.

Wearing gloves reduces hand injury risk by at least 50 percent. But it's important that the employer chooses the right glove for the job.

It's not enough just to protect the hands from cuts, puncture and abrasions, gloves should be comfortable, enhance dexterity and meet job-specific needs.

Hazards

Hazards to hand include:

  • skin absorption of harmful substances
  • severe cuts or lacerations
  • severe abrasions
  • punctures
  • chemical burns
  • thermal burns
  • harmful temperature extremes

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

10-9. The risk of injuring your hands is reduced by at least what percent when wearing the appropriate gloves?