Hand Safety at Work: Tips to Prevent Common Workplace Injuries

Our hands are involved in nearly every task we do at work—yet they’re also one of the most commonly injured parts of the body. Whether you’re typing all day, working on a factory floor, or lifting equipment on a building site, your hands, wrists, and elbows are constantly exposed to potential strain or injury.

At Hands for Living, we work with people from all types of professions who experience hand-related injuries at work. The good news is that many of these injuries are preventable with the right habits, tools, and awareness.

Why Hand Injuries Happen in the Workplace

Different work environments present different risks. For some, it’s repetitive motion. For others, it’s sudden impact or awkward handling of tools. Most workplace hand injuries fall into one of three categories:

• Repetitive strain: typing, data entry, use of handheld tools
  
• Forceful movements: lifting, pulling, gripping, or pressing
  
• Accidents or trauma: cuts, burns, crush injuries, or sprains
  

Even jobs that seem low risk—like desk work—can lead to long-term discomfort if hand and wrist posture aren’t managed properly.

Common Workplace Hand Conditions

Some of the most frequent issues we treat include:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome from prolonged keyboard use
  
• Tendonitis in the wrist or thumb from gripping tools
  
• Tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow in manual or repetitive roles
  
• Trigger finger or De Quervain’s from handheld device use
  
• Strains and sprains from lifting, carrying, or bracing
  

These injuries don’t usually happen all at once. They build gradually, often starting with mild discomfort that worsens over time.

Tips for Protecting Your Hands at Work

Keep Wrists in a Neutral Position

Whether you’re using a keyboard or lifting equipment, aim to keep your wrists straight and relaxed. Awkward wrist angles increase strain on tendons and nerves.

Use the Right Tools for the Job

Don’t force tasks with tools that don’t fit. Use ergonomically designed handles where possible, and make sure grips match the size and strength of your hand.

Take Regular Micro-Breaks

Even short breaks help. Every 30 minutes, stop to stretch your fingers, shake out your wrists, or change posture. Small movements prevent tension from building.

Avoid Overgripping

It’s common to use more force than needed—especially with pens, mouse devices, or tools. Aim for a relaxed grip and reduce tight holds whenever possible.

Position Work Close to Your Body

The further away your arms are from your body, the more strain your shoulders, elbows, and wrists take on. Bring tools, keyboards, or materials closer to reduce reach.

Be Aware of Early Symptoms

Numbness, tingling, or aching in your hands or wrists shouldn’t be ignored. These are signs your body needs a change—whether it’s posture, tool setup, or activity levels.

How Hand Therapy Can Help

If discomfort has already started, hand therapy can help you recover and prevent future issues. At Hands for Living, we provide:

• Personalised assessments of hand and wrist function
  
• Advice on safe movement patterns and tool use
  
• Exercises to support hand endurance and control
  
• Splinting options if support is needed during work
  

We also help you understand how your work habits might be contributing to symptoms—and how to modify them in ways that are realistic for your role.

Your Hands Are One of Your Best Assets

No matter your job, your hands are essential. Taking care of them today helps you avoid downtime, discomfort, and disruption later on.

With a few smart adjustments and early support when needed, you can protect your hands—and keep doing what you do best.