Hand injuries are one of the leading injuries in industrial and construction environment. They can also be life changing.

Here are 10 rules to help protect your 10 fingers.

1. Beware of pinch points. Train yourself to recognize pinch pints and avoid placing your hands and fingers in such hazardous spots.
2. Expect the expected. When using wrenches and other hand tools, with which you expect resistance, anticipate that the tool might slip or the object to which pressure is being applied may suddenly give way.
3. Inspect tools. Check to see if they are in good condition and safe to use.
4. Do not work on moving equipment. If the equipment can be stopped, do so. Working on moving equipment presents a real threat to hands and fingers.
5. Replace machine guards following repairs that require removal of guards. The presence of machine guards is an important factor in keeping hands and fingers out of dangerous areas.
6. Be mindful of equipment that starts automatically. Never work on such equipment without first eliminating the possibility of automatic startup.
7. Deenergize electrical equipment prior to working on it. Flash burns caused by electrical equipment shorting out is a threat to hands and fingers when work around such equipment is being performed.
8. Be mindful when closing doors. Keep hands and fingers clear. Also, watch for children’s fingers in the family car.
9. Avoid touching lines or equipment that is hot. Every hot line or hot piece of equipment is a potential source of painful injury to any hand or finger that comes in contact with it.
10. If the work being performed requires gloves, use them. Gloves offer protection from sharp objects, wood and metal splinters, acids, electrical burns, chemicals, and many other sources of injury.