Abstract

Previous detailed analysis of the types and immediate causes of hand injury indicated the need to investigate the circumstances surrounding these accidents.

Using information gathered in telephone interviews of 230 accident victims, the researchers developed a detailed profile of work organization and hazardous situations in the metal products fabrication sector and in 10 sub-sectors. The two main factors associated with hand accidents were the nature of technical production techniques and the inadequate training and orientation of the workforce. These factors were present in all sub-sectors, although their relative importance varied from one sub-sector to another. Company- and task-specific risk factors, as well as risk factors related to the workers' perceptions of accident causation are described. The report also reviews accidents involving amputations, the use of safety gloves, and hand accidents involving machinery.