This topic covers OSHA’s regulations for hand protection, which are a subset of its personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements. Common types of hand and finger injuries include traumatic injuries (e.g., cuts, fractures, punctures, and amputations), contact injuries (e.g., skin diseases or burns), and carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a condition that results from prolonged repetive work with the hands.
Hand protection must be worn when employees face hazards to hands or fingers including absorption of harmful substances through the skin, serious cuts and abrasions, punctures, chemical or thermal burns, and extreme temperatures. Hand protection can consist of protective gloves, arm coverings or elbow-length gloves, or finger guards. Protective gloves can be fabric or coated fabric; leather, canvas, or metal mesh; chemical-resistant material; or insulated rubber. The appropriate type of hand protection depends on the specific job hazards to which an employee is exposed.
For related resources and training materials, refer to the following topics: