[Hand injuries in the users of hydraulic wood-cutters]

This study has been carried out in order to suggest possible prophylactic recommendations. We investigated the type of injuries, the type of logsplitter used, the injury circumstances and the safety measures. Fifty-two patients were included. There were a total of 21 crushing injuries with amputations of fingers, hand, on forearm. Nine replantations, two revascularisations and seven amputations were carried out. Eighty-eight percent of the patients had their hand in the splitting area. Sixty-seven percent had not received any instructions on how to operate the machinery. In 58% of the cases two or more persons were operating the logsplitter and 40% of the machines had no emergency stop button. The hazards mentioned above influenced the injury frequence and severity. We therefore recommend improved prophylactic measures and precautions to be considered. For the old machines a campaign will be necessary, and for new logsplitters we recommend implementation of new standards.