HAND, HEAD and FOOT PROTECTION
Gloves
Why Hand Protection is Important
Take a moment to hold your hands out in front of you. Look at them. They are the only two hands you will ever have. It has been estimated that almost 20% of all disabling accidents on the job involve the hands. Without your fingers or hands, your ability to work would be greatly reduced. Human hands are unique. No other creature in the world has hands that can grasp, hold, move, and manipulate objects like human hands. They are one of your greatest assets. And, as such, must be protected and cared for.
OSHA STANDARDS: Hand Protection. (OSHA 1910.138)
- Each affected employee shall wear protective gloves when working in areas where 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.
Hard Hats
Why Head Protection is Important
Your head is a very delicate part of your body. In and around your head are:
- Your eyes, with which you see;
- Your ears, with which you hear;
- Your nose, with which you smell;
- Your mouth, with which you eat and speak; and
- Your brain, with which you think.
Injuries to the head are very serious. For this reason, head protection and safety are very important.
OSHA STANDARDS: Head Protection (OSHA 1910.135)
- Each affected employee shall wear protective helmets when working in areas where there is a
potential for injury to the head from falling objects. Protective helmets shall also be worn to
reduce electrical shock hazards when near expose electrical conductors which could contact the
head.
Safety Shoes
Why Foot Protection is Important
Scientists and engineers for centuries have marveled at the design and structure of the human foot. The human foot is rigid enough to support the weight of your entire body, and yet flexible enough to allow you to run, dance, play sports, and to take you anywhere you want to go. Without your feet and toes, your ability to work at your job would be greatly reduced.
OSHA STANDARDS: Foot Protection (OSHA 1910.136)
Each affected employee shall wear protective footwear when working in areas where there is a
danger of foot injuries due to falling and rolling objects, or objects piercing the sole, and where
such employee’s feet are exposed to electrical hazards.
For questions or concerns on hand, head, foot protection, or safety in general at NMSU, call EH&S at 575-646-3327. (http://safety.nmsu.edu)