As part of the ‘Be prepared to work safely’ series, IMCA published a video on keeping hands safe in the workplace.
As IMCA highlights, hands are strong, flexible and adaptable; “they are the best tools you could ever wish for. Look after them.”
Know where you should and should not put your hands
In order for seafarers to keep their hands safe, IMCA noted that every crew should be asking the following questions:
- Think about what you’re going to do;
- Do you have the right tools?
- Do you know how to use them?
- Does the work involve things that are heavy or high up?
- Do you need help to do the job safely?
- Use the right gloves as you might need a good grip or protection against chemicals;
- Are you wearing any jewelry which might get caught in machinery or cut into your fingers if you are take it off?
- Know where you put your hands; there could be something sharp;
- Is there danger from stored electrical or mechanical energy?
- Will your hands be in the line of fire at any point?
- Are you sure it’s safe to get started?
- If not stop and think again;
- If necessary, rearrange the job to eliminate the danger.
