Pinch Points

Pinch points can occur in a number of places, mostly from machinery with moving parts like a lathe or band saw. But incorrect rigging or even a desk drawer (insert eyeroll here) can be culprits too. Pinch points are a big factor in the trades and every trade has their own hazards to worry about. Here are a few quick tips to keep all your fingers and other parts out of jeopardy.

Before you even step foot on site, you can do a lot to protect yourself. Wear clothing that fits. Loose clothes can get caught and snagged on moving parts. Pull the drawstring out of you hoodies (some sites don’t allow hoodies at all, for this very reason). Pull your hair back if it’s long and make sure it’s tucked away so it won’t get caught either. Jewelry is a definite no-no.  Just ask Jimmy Fallon about ring avulsion. Always wear the proper PPE. Different gloves may be needed for work on various machines. Now that you’re dressed for success, this is what you can do on site.

If you haven’t been trained on a piece of machinery then don’t touch it… That simple. Get someone who’s trained to help you, or ask to be trained yourself. Never modify or remove guards from anything, they are there for a reason. If a guard has to be removed for maintenance make sure to replace it before use. Always do pre-work inspections. Never leave machinery running unattended and always make sure that machinery is off and completely stopped before doing any maintenance. Lock outs may also be needed. Keep floors surrounding this machinery clean, a slip or trip could be deadly. Keep warning signs clean and legible. Use your daily hazard assessment to identify the pinch points you may encounter during the day.

Pinch points can cause cuts, broken or crushed bones, amputation and even death so take all precautions necessary to keep all your fingers and other parts intact.