SAFETY MOMENT, FEBRUARY 26

Use the right tool in good shape

See today's safety moment How to give a safety moment

Safety moment, February 26

Your hands are in almost every task, so they are close to the hazard all day long. A crushed finger, a deep cut or a chemical burn can keep you off work and change how you live at home. Hand injuries can be prevented when we plan where our hands go, use the right tool and wear the right glove.

SAFETY MOMENT

February 26

The hazard

Your hands are in almost every task, so they are close to the hazard all day long. A crushed finger, a deep cut or a chemical burn can keep you off work and change how you live at home. Hand injuries can be prevented when we plan where our hands go, use the right tool and wear the right glove.

The action

Damaged tools can cause hand injuries: a cracked handle, a mushroomed chisel head or a dull blade that needs extra force. Employers are responsible for the safe condition of tools used on the job, including tools workers supply themselves (29 CFR 1910.242(a)). Inspect tools before use, take bad ones out of service and always cut away from your body. Pick tools that fit your hand, and report tingling or numbness after using vibrating tools. (29 CFR 1910.242(a))

ASK THE CREW

Which task on this job puts our hands closest to a pinch point?

From the talk: Hand safety. Read it in full, free, with the questions and the sign-in sheet.

HOW TO USE IT

How to give a safety moment

Gather the crew where they work, before the shift or the meeting starts. Read the hazard out loud.
Ask the question and let two or three people answer. What they say about their own work counts for more than what you read.
Name the action and point to one place on today's job where it applies, so everyone knows what to do differently.
Write the date and the names on a sign-in sheet.

A safety moment is short and does not replace the full talk. When you want to go through a topic with the crew, pick a free toolbox talk.

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