At Black River Trading, we know that your hands are your most valuable tools—used every day to operate machinery, handle materials, and keep equipment running. But industrial work, especially in the recycling and equipment service industries, can be brutal on the hands.

Common Hand Hazards in the Field:

  • Sharp-edged scrap or machinery
  • Coarse materials like wire or metal banding
  • Oils, fuels, solvents, and degreasers
  • Cold, heat, and rough weather
  • Pinch points and rotating equipment

Hand injuries are one of the most common—and preventable—workplace accidents. That’s why it’s important to stop and ask: What am I asking my hands to do? Then make sure they’re properly protected.



🧤 Tips for Hand Safety on the Job

Wear Proper Gloves

  • Leather gloves protect from abrasions, sharp edges, and offer grip strength.
  • Chemical-resistant gloves help guard against solvents, fuels, and cleaning agents.
  • Make sure gloves fit correctly—oversized gloves can get caught in moving parts.

Recognize Hazards

  • Keep hands clear of pinch points and rotating equipment.
  • Never use your fingers to test temperatures on machinery or piping.
  • Inspect materials before lifting—look for nails, banding, glass, or splinters.

Use Protective Creams & Lotions

  • Barrier creams can help defend against dermatitis from grease or paint.
  • Apply moisturizing lotion after shifts to prevent cracked or dry skin.

Remember: Hands are like finely crafted tools—strong, dexterous, and irreplaceable. Protect them.

📞 Have questions about workplace safety equipment? Call us at (855) 278-1979

🌐 Visit brtequipment.com for gear, service, and safety supplies.