Although it may be impossible to avoid all injuries in the workplace, there are steps you can take that will help reduce the risk of work-related injuries to your hands and wrists.

In the past few years, ergonomics, the science of fitting the work environment and conditions to the worker, has become an important focus in working toward a risk-free work environment. This research has resulted in the redesign of many problematic workspaces and tools, as well as changes in production procedures and manipulation of materials for many companies across the nation.

There are things that you can do to protect your hands and wrists from injury on-the-job. Below are a few suggestions you may want to try.

• Make sure you are aware of potentially dangerous situations, such as moving equipment that could catch your gloves or fingers, and follow all recommended safety procedures in the work place.
• If your work requires you to use your hands extensively, find out what kinds of protective gear may be available, such as padded wrist supports on keyboards, or 
• Determine if there are any types of conditioning exercises that may condition your hands and wrists so you can better tolerate repetitive movements in your work.
• Keep your wrists in a natural or neutral position to avoid stress.
• Use ergonomically designed tools when possible. When a specially designed tool is not available, select light-weight tools that allow you to keep your wrist and hand in the most neutral position possible during use. When possible, use power tools.
• If you feel your work may include tasks that could cause an injury, talk with your supervisor. There may be a safer, less taxing way, to accomplish a task that may cause you problems later.