Protect Your Hands OSHA Requirements - Capstone Brokerage

By: Kathleen Murray, Capstone Client Advocate, March 28 2017

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is the second line of defense for protecting your hands from injuries. There are many glove selections for different applications. Using an ill-fitted glove is just as dangerous as not using a glove at all.

For OSHA Compliance, a reminder about PPE is included in this newsletter, OSHA Regulation 29CFR, 1910.38 – Hand Protection.

• 1910.138(a): General Requirements: Employers shall select and require employees to use appropriate hand protection when employees’ hands are exposed to hazards such as those from skin absorption of harmful substances; severe cuts or lacerations; severe abrasions; punctures; chemical burns; thermal burns; and harmful temperature extremes.

• 5(a)(1) General Duty Clause; Safe and Healthful Workplace

Which Glove Is Best?
Below is a Table for the Type of Glove and Uses for the Job Requirement:

Glove Care:

• Inspect gloves before use for tears, excessive wear and punctures
• Store in a clean, dry location
• Discard leather and cloth gloves if they become saturated with oil or other chemicals
• Leak Test chemical gloves by sealing the wrist and filling the glove with air – Use a clean, plastic tube, not your mouth!

There are several OSHA publications addressing major hazards associated with Hand Safety. The publications can be ordered directly from OSHA or downloaded from the website: www.OSHA.gov, for distribution at safety meetings. “Nail Gun Safety, OSHA/NIOSH 2011; Safeguarding Equipment and Protecting Employees from Amputations, OSHA 2007; Approaches to Safe Nanotechnology, NOSH 2009. “