Hand injuries are a significant concern in various workplaces across Massachusetts. From cuts and fractures to more severe conditions like amputations, these injuries can result in substantial downtime and affect an individual's quality of life. 

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics there were 2.8 million workplace injuries and illnesses in private industry in 2022, up 7.5 percent from 2021. This article lists the most common hand injuries in the workplace, along with helpful information to assist both employers and employees in minimizing these risks.

1. Cuts and Lacerations

• Description: These injuries involve a break in the skin, usually caused by sharp objects or machinery.
• Common Causes: Handling tools, machinery without safety guards, or working with materials like metal or glass.
• Prevention Tips:
  • Wear cut-resistant gloves.
  • Keep work areas clear of sharp objects.
  • Use safety guards on machinery.

2. Fractures

• Description: A break or crack in a bone in the hand, often resulting from a fall or direct impact.
• Common Causes: Falls, getting hands caught in machinery, or direct blows during physical labor.
• Prevention Tips:
  • Use protective gear like gloves and wrist guards.
  • Implement slip-resistant flooring.
  • Train employees in proper equipment handling.

3. Sprains and Strains

• Description: Injuries to the ligaments (sprains) or muscles/tendons (strains), often due to overuse or sudden twisting.
• Common Causes: Repetitive motions, improper lifting techniques, or sudden force.
• Prevention Tips:
  • Encourage regular breaks and stretching exercises.
  • Educate on ergonomic practices.
  • Promote proper lifting techniques.

4. Burns

• Description: Damage to the skin or deeper tissues caused by heat, chemicals, or electricity.
• Common Causes: Contact with hot surfaces, chemical spills, or electrical equipment.
• Prevention Tips:
  • Provide heat-resistant gloves and protective clothing.
  • Label and store chemicals safely.
  • Ensure electrical safety protocols are in place.

5. Amputations

• Description: The traumatic or surgical removal of a part or all of a hand or finger.
• Common Causes: Severe injuries from machinery, tools, or accidents.
• Prevention Tips:
  • Install machine guards and safety devices.
  • Conduct regular safety training and drills.
  • Implement strict lockout/tagout procedures.

6. Punctures

• Description: Injuries caused by objects piercing the skin, such as needles or nails.
• Common Causes: Accidental encounters with sharp tools or materials.
• Prevention Tips:
  • Use puncture-resistant gloves.
  • Keep work areas clean and free of hazards.
  • Properly dispose of sharp objects.

7. Crush Injuries

• Description: Injuries resulting from being squeezed, trapped, or compressed between objects.
• Common Causes: Getting hands caught in machinery, heavy objects falling onto the hand, or vehicle accidents.
• Prevention Tips:
  • Implement machine safety protocols.
  • Use protective barriers and guards.
  • Train employees in emergency response procedures.

8. Dermatitis

• Description: Inflammation of the skin, often characterized by redness, itching, and swelling.
• Common Causes: Exposure to irritants or allergens, such as chemicals or latex.
• Prevention Tips:
  • Provide skin protection, such as gloves and barrier creams.
  • Educate employees on proper hand hygiene.
  • Implement a policy for reporting and managing skin problems.

Conclusion

Understanding and addressing the most common hand injuries in Massachusetts workplaces is essential for maintaining a safe and productive environment. Employers should implement comprehensive safety protocols, provide appropriate protective equipment, and promote a culture based on safety awareness. By doing this, companies can safeguard their workers and lower the possibility of expensive mishaps and downtime.

Get Help from Brandon J. Broderick, MA Workers Compensation Lawyers

At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we are dedicated to assisting clients throughout Massachusetts with their workers’ compensation cases. We have years of experience and the extensive resources you need to secure a fair case result. Filing a workers' compensation claim does not mean you will be compensated fairly. 

Contact us today for a free consultation.