Douglas OHI continues to prioritise safety with a focused initiative on hand protection across its project sites, recognising that hand injuries remain among the most common - and preventable - incidents in the construction industry.
At one of our active sites, a recent awareness drive was launched to highlight the importance of proper hand protection. The initiative included toolbox talks, visual demonstrations, and supervisor-led walkdowns, all aimed at reinforcing safe practices and the correct selection and use of gloves based on specific site activities.
Construction workers rely on their hands for virtually every task - from operating tools to handling materials. Without proper protection, they are vulnerable to cuts, abrasions, crush injuries, and chemical exposure. By focusing on this often-overlooked aspect of PPE, Douglas OHI is helping to cultivate a culture where proactive safety behaviours become second nature.
The initiative was underpinned by three core messages:
• Choose the right glove for the task – not all gloves offer the same protection.
• Inspect gloves regularly - damaged PPE can create a false sense of security.
• Report and replace - workers were encouraged to flag issues and ensure faulty equipment is immediately removed from use.
As part of the programme, frontline supervisors and safety teams engaged with workers to understand on-the-ground challenges, encouraging dialogue and feedback. This two-way communication ensures that safety solutions are not only effective but practical.
“Our goal is to reduce preventable injuries by ensuring that every team member understands the value of proper hand protection and is empowered to make safe choices,” said Peter Baker, Regional HSSE Manager, Douglas OHI.
This hand protection drive reflects Douglas OHI’s broader commitment to building a resilient safety culture - one that values both education and action. By taking a proactive approach and involving teams at every level, the company is making tangible progress towards eliminating hand injuries on site.