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Hand and finger injuries are one of the most common injuries on-site. Over the last year, HazardCo has received 4599 incident reports – 720 of those were hand or finger injuries. That highlights just how often these injuries happen, so let’s look at how they happen and what we can do to prevent them.

Common hand injuries

There are plenty of ways hands and fingers can get hurt on-site, but the most common injuries include:

• Crushed fingers and hands
• Cuts and punctures
• Burns
• Electric shocks

These injuries happen due to faulty equipment, falling objects, getting caught between materials, electrical issues, and simple mistakes.

Hand tools: 

Many hand and finger injuries occur from everyday tools such as hammers, saws, pliers and utility knives. These injuries are often caused by rushing, fatigue, complacency, using damaged tools, or not having the right training.

The long-term impact

Hand injuries aren’t just painful – they affect your ability to work and go about your daily life. Even minor injuries can weaken grip strength and finger movement. More serious injuries could mean permanent damage or loss of function.

How to reduce hand injuries

Keeping hands safe is all about awareness and good habits. Here’s how you and your team can reduce the risk:

• Check your tools – If it’s damaged, replace it. Don’t try to fix a bent tool – swap it out! Ensure sure all safety mechanisms and guards are in place and working properly before use
• Take your time – Make sure you have a firm grip and check your surroundings before using a tool.
• Use the right tool for the job – It might sound obvious, but using the wrong tool can be dangerous.
• Think ahead – If you’re pulling something out or using force, consider what might happen next. Are your hands in the clear? Do you have solid footing? What’s behind you?
• Watch your hand placement! – Keep your free hand well away from the danger zone. If you need it to steady something, make sure it’s clear of blades and hammerheads.
• Pre-start checks – Before using a tool, make sure it’s in good working order. If not, remove it from service.
• Hold safety demos – Some suppliers offer training and demos – take advantage of them.
• Include hand safety in toolbox talks – Keep hand and finger safety top of mind.
• Wear the right PPE – Gloves, hard hats, and other protective gear can make a big difference.

Leading by example

Safety isn’t just about following the rules. It’s about actions and leading by example. Leaders set the tone by demonstrating safe practices, sharing real stories of how hand injuries can impact lives and actively monitoring worksite conditions. Once workers understand the risk, it’s their responsibility to stay aware, but team leaders must make sure safety measures are in place and consistently followed.

Let’s work together to bring those hand injury numbers down!

Got a question about hand safety or any other health and safety issue? The HazardCo Advisory Team is here to help – call 0800 555 339