We often take our hands and feet for granted as we use them for so many day-to-day tasks so it is easy to get complacent and not protect ourselves as well as we should.
Tradesmen and installers make a living using our hands and feet so it is vital that we consider how to protect them against potential hazards. In this month’s column, I’ll offer some advice that I hope you’ll find handy (no pun intended, honestly!)
Statistically, our hands are the most often injured part of the body and this is no surprise as we use them so frequently in our daily lives. Injuries can range from cuts, abrasions, punctures and broken bones caused by tools, to burns and scalds caused by dangerous chemicals. Before taking on any job, it is essential to plan properly so that any potential hazards are identified a long while before starting.
Using the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) is extremely important and proper gloves are the best way to protect your hands against hazards. Depending on the job you are carrying out, gloves can be cotton, leather, cut-resistant or chemical-resistant to defend against the most likely dangers. I always make sure I am wearing my Blaklader gloves when working.
Incorrect or poorly serviced tools are also potentially hazardous so making sure you have the right tools and they are in good working condition is essential. As an employer, it is your responsibility to ensure that staff receive proper training and the number of injuries caused by not using tools correctly is extremely high.
Though injuries to your feet are less common, it is still a good idea to know some of the dangers that are common. Some of the most common injuries to your feet include skin rashes, hammer toes, postural deformities and general aches and pains.
Your feet are often at risk from falling objects and wearing safe and supportive work boots with an in-built toe-cap will protect them. Sore feet are a sign that something is not right so you should check that your boots are the proper size and are being used for the correct job. Different footwear is available depending on the type of job you are undertaking. For example, lace-up boots are useful to prevent ankle injuries.
It may sound strange, but in my experience, in warmer conditions people become less concerned about their own health and safety. It may be that people are less willing to wear the correct PPE, but you are at risk at any time of year so it is always important to wear the correct equipment.
Craig Phillips is brand ambassador for Swedish workwear brand, Blaklader. Visit the website here: https://www.blaklader.com/gb/