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The Necessity for Improved Hand and Finger Protection in Mining
John R Heberger1, Mahiyar F Nasarwanji1, Jonisha P Pollard2
1Pittsburgh Mining Research Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 626 Cochran Mill Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15236, USA.
Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration
|July 15, 2022
Summary
Hand and finger injuries are common in mining, occurring at nearly double the rate of back injuries. Cuts, lacerations, and fractures are frequent, highlighting the need for improved safety measures and protective gear.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Mining Safety
- Injury Epidemiology
Background:
- Hand and finger injuries are a significant concern in the mining industry.
- Understanding injury factors is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify incidence rates, injury types, activities, and sources of hand and finger injuries in U.S. mining.
- To analyze the role of glove usage in mining-related hand and finger injuries.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of nonfatal injury data reported to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) from 2011-2017.
- Categorization of injuries by nature, work activity, and source.
Main Results:
- Hand and finger injuries occurred at a rate of 6.53 per 1000 full-time employees.
- Cuts/lacerations/punctures (53%) and bone fractures/chips (26%) were the most common injury types.
- Materials handling and maintenance/repair were primary activities; miscellaneous metals and hand tools were common injury sources.
- Gloves were worn during 20% of injuries, indicating a complex role in both protection and risk.
Conclusions:
- Hand and finger injuries are highly prevalent in mining, necessitating targeted prevention.
- Further research is needed to establish performance requirements for mining gloves, especially for cut and puncture resistance.
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