This website was developed to provide construction workers and contractors with information that can be used to reduce the risk of work-related hand injuries, dermatitis, and related hand and skin disorders. The site includes information on:
- Choosing Hand Tools – how to decide if a hand tool is "ergonomic" for the user, what features can reduce the risk for injury, and guidance on selecting hand tools.
- Choosing Gloves – how to prevent skin disorders, such as dermatitis, the importance of selecting the right gloves for a product and task, and guidance for selecting gloves.
This site also includes general information on preventing other types of hand injuries and training materials that can be used with workers and contractors on job sites or in classroom settings, to raise awareness of hand and skin hazards and increase the use of preventive measures.
This website was developed under the guidance of the Masonry r2p Partnership, which includes as its core members the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, the International Council of Employers of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, and the International Masonry Institute. The goal of the Masonry r2p Partnership is to increase awareness and use of tools, materials, and work practices that have been found to reduce workers' risk for injury or illness.
Technical expertise and content were provided by:
- Hand Tool Criteria and Related Information – Tim Morse, Ph.D., Certified Professional Ergonomist, Consultant and Professor Emeritus, University of Connecticut Health Center, timmorse@snet.net.
- Glove Selection Criteria & Related Information – Environmental Profiles Inc. (EPI), a multi-disciplined health, safety and environmental consulting firm, http://www.episervices.com/.
CPWR staff provided additional input and support. CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training is an international leader in applied research and training for the construction industry, and serves as the National Construction Center for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). CPWR conducts research to identify the causes of and solutions for safety and health risks on construction jobs that can lead to injuries, illnesses and fatalities, publicizes the results, encourages the use of solutions, and trains instructors in general and specialized safety and health topics.