Attorney
Hand injuries are common in the workplace, accounting for 13.5% of reported injuries, with finger injuries at 8.7%. From repetitive strain injuries in offices to severe fractures and lacerations in construction and healthcare, these injuries impact lives and cost businesses.
We’ll explore common hand injuries in the workplace across different industries and emphasize the importance of safety measures to protect workers. Understanding these risks can help prevent injuries and ensure a safer working environment for everyone.
Mild Hand Injuries in the Workplace
Mild injuries are those that typically involve minor damage to muscles, tendons, or ligaments. These injuries usually heal with minimal medical intervention and rest.
Sprains
Sprains are a ligament hand tissue injury, and these injuries usually happen from performing awkward movements or lifting heavy objects incorrectly. For example, carrying heavy materials without knowing the proper techniques can lead to sprains.
Recovering from strains involves rest, ice, compression,and elevation (RICE). You may need physical therapy to regain your flexibility and strength. To prevent them, learn proper lifting techniques and take breaks. For working in the office, keep good posture, take breaks to stretch your wrists and hands, and use ergonomic equipment.
Repetitive Strain Injuries
Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) come from using repeated motions that put stress on your wrists and hands, like carpal tunnel syndrome. Repetitively using tools like drills and hammers, or by typing and using a mouse for hours can cause this hand tissue injury.
Regular stretch breaks are key to rest and stretch your wrists and hands are key, and consider alternating tasks. If you’ve suffered a hand injury at work in Maryland, contact a local personal injury attorney to understand your rights and see if you’re eligible for a hand injury workers’ comp settlement.
Moderate Hand Injuries at Work
Moderate injuries often involve more significant damage that may require medical treatment or intervention. These injuries can cause substantial pain and may require a longer recovery period.
Lacerations
A laceration is a skin tear or cut caused by sharp objects. In the construction sector, these injuries are common from using tools like saws. It’s easy for workers to accidentally cut themselves, leading to painful or deep wounds that can cost upwards of $10,000 to treat.. In the office, simple tasks like using a stapler or handler paper can cause lacerations. The cuts are usually less severe in these areas, but they can still be painful.
For hand injury prevention for lacerations, make a point to use your tools properly and wear protective gloves. Be careful of any sharp objects, and keep your workspace clean and as organized as possible.
Fractures
Fractures are bone breaks in the hand, and they usually happen when heavy objects fall on a worker’s hand. These injuries can be extremely painful, and they may require a long healing time, usually six to eight weeks. Slips and falls in office settings are common causes of fractures in office settings. For example you may trip over a loose cable or slip on a wet floor and fracture your hand trying to break your fall.
Treatment may involve wearing a cast or splint to ensure the bone doesn’t move as it heals. In some cases, you may need surgery to reset the bone. Wearing safety gear and keeping your space clear of tripping hazards can help prevent them.
For workers in Washington, DC, experiencing a hand injury can be life-altering. Contact a DC-based personal injury lawyer to explore your legal options, like a hand injury workers’ comp settlement, and get the help you deserve.
Burns
Burn injuries occur from contact with hot surfaces, chemicals, or electrical sources. In construction, burns can happen during welding or handling hot materials. In office environments, burns might result from kitchen accidents, like touching a hot coffee pot.
Preventive measures include wearing protective gloves and clothing in construction and being cautious around hot surfaces and electrical equipment in both settings. It’s essential because research showed that the majority of hand burns were due to not wearing gloves or PPE (personal protective equipment). Proper training on handling hazardous materials and equipment can also help prevent burn injuries.
Severe Work-Related Hand Injuries
Severe injuries involve extensive damage that often requires immediate and significant medical intervention. These injuries can be life-threatening or result in long-term disability or impairment, and they may entitle you to a hand injury workers’ comp settlement.
Crush Injuries
Crush injuries happen when the hand is caught between two heavy objects, causing severe damage to bones, muscles, and tissues. These injuries are more common in the construction sector, where heavy machinery and materials are frequently used.
For hand injury prevention regarding crush injuries, workers should always follow safety protocols, such as wearing protective gloves, using machinery properly, and keeping hands clear of moving parts. Proper training and awareness can significantly reduce the risk of these dangerous injuries.
Amputations
Amputations are severe injuries where a part of the hand or finger is severed. These injuries are particularly common in the construction sector due to the use of heavy machinery and power tools. For instance, improper use of saws, drills, or other cutting equipment can lead to accidental amputations. Such injuries can have a significant impact on a worker’s life, affecting their ability to perform daily tasks and work.
Strict safety protocols are essential to prevent amputations. Workers should always use protective equipment, follow safety guidelines, and receive proper training on using machinery. Regular maintenance of equipment and the implementation of safety guards can also reduce the risk of these devastating injuries.
In Virginia, workplace hand injuries are unfortunately common. If you’ve been injured, reach out to a Virginia lawyer who can provide expert advice on workers’ compensation and help you through your recovery.
Support for Hand Injuries in the Workplace
Hand injuries in the workplace, such as lacerations, fractures, sprains, repetitive strain injuries, crush injuries, burns, and amputations, are common but preventable. By following safety protocols, using protective equipment, and maintaining a safe work environment, the risk of these injuries can be significantly reduced.
If you’ve experienced a hand injury at work, it’s important to seek legal advice. Contact Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis, LLP for a free consultation to discuss your rights and explore your options for compensation and support.