Respiratory Protection

Understanding This Standard

OSHA standard 1910.138, 'Hand Protection,' mandates that employers select and require employees to use appropriate hand protection when their hands are exposed to hazards such as those from skin absorption of harmful substances, severe cuts or lacerations, severe abrasions, punctures, chemical burns, thermal burns, and harmful temperature extremes. This standard is a critical component of personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements and aims to prevent debilitating hand injuries.

The core of 1910.138 requires employers to conduct a hazard assessment to identify existing or potential hand hazards. Based on this assessment, employers must select the correct type of hand protection that will protect against the identified hazards. This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach; different tasks and exposures require different types of gloves (e.g., leather for cuts, chemical-resistant for solvents, insulated for temperature extremes). Employers are also responsible for ensuring that employees are trained on the proper use, care, and limitations of the hand protection provided.

Common violations of 1910.138 often stem from an inadequate hazard assessment, leading to the selection of inappropriate or insufficient hand protection. Other frequent violations include failing to provide any hand protection when hazards are present, providing damaged or ill-fitting gloves, or not ensuring that employees actually wear the protection. Lack of training on proper glove use and maintenance is also a common citation.

The average penalty for 1910.138 violations is around $647, but a single serious violation can reach up to $109,381, demonstrating OSHA's commitment to enforcing this standard, especially when severe injuries occur. Compliance is relatively straightforward: conduct thorough hazard assessments, select and provide the correct PPE, ensure it fits properly and is maintained, and train employees comprehensively. This proactive approach not only avoids penalties but, more importantly, protects workers from preventable hand injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of hazards does OSHA 1910.138 require hand protection for?

OSHA 1910.138 requires hand protection for hazards including skin absorption of harmful substances, severe cuts or lacerations, severe abrasions, punctures, chemical burns, thermal burns, and harmful temperature extremes.

What is an employer's primary responsibility under OSHA 1910.138?

The primary responsibility is to conduct a hazard assessment to identify hand hazards, select and provide appropriate hand protection, ensure its proper use and maintenance, and train employees on the PPE's proper application, limitations, and care.

Can employers just provide any gloves to meet 1910.138?

No, employers cannot just provide any gloves. The standard requires the selection of *appropriate* hand protection based on a specific hazard assessment. The gloves must be suitable for the identified hazards (e.g., chemical-resistant for chemicals, cut-resistant for sharp objects, insulated for extreme temperatures).