Almost every job requires workers to use their hands to a certain degree. Therefore, most people wouldn’t be able to perform their jobs, even with some minor modifications, if we were to suffer an injury to them.
One U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) study from 2019 showed that at least 120,000 workers were forced to take leave from their jobs due to them suffering a hand injury. Learning more about some of the more common causes of hand injuries can perhaps aid you in keeping safe at your job.
What factors give way to job-related hand injuries?
Labor statistics show that workers’ hand injuries are most commonly result from:
- Workers’ use of machinery: It’s not uncommon for workers’ clothing or jewelry to get stuck in a piece of equipment, drawing their hand in and injuring it in the process.
- Contact hazards: A worker that doesn’t use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling certain chemicals might suffer an allergic reaction or chemical burns. BLS discovered that at least 70% of workers who suffered hand injuries in 2019 weren’t wearing PPE at the time their incident occurred.
- Repeatedly carrying out the same motions: Individuals working as baristas or in clerical roles may develop repetitive stress injuries or similar conditions in their hands and wrists from constantly doing the same activities each workday.
- Packaging-related injuries: Some packaging, or materials used to seal or open them, can leave workers vulnerable to cuts, skin tears and repetitive strain injuries.
Georgia law requires most employers to secure workers’ compensation insurance to cover their employees’ medical expenses and lost wages if they suffer injuries or illnesses on the job. Whether you might be entitled to such compensation is contingent upon your worker classification and other factors. You must follow certain processes within a designated time frame to ensure your right to compensation. If you’re unsure of your rights, there is help available.