A pinch point occurs when two objects come together to create an area where a body part, most commonly fingers or hands, can be caught, crushed, or pinched. Pinch points can cause minor bruises and cuts to severe crushing injuries, broken bones, amputations, permanent nerve damage, and life-threatening injuries.
Common pinch points include:
- Gates, doors, hinges, and drawers
- Hand tools like pliers and scissors
- Unsecured or shifting objects
- Forklifts, elevating work platforms, and other mobile equipment
- Construction and heavy equipment
- Materials like pipes, rebar, beams, and lumber
- Vehicle doors, tailgates, lift gates, and patch gates
To avoid pinch point injuries:
• Take time to proactively identify hazards before performing tasks. If you see a hazard, say something and do something.
• Keep hands, fingers, body parts, hair, and clothing away from moving parts.
• Use appropriate tools and personal protective equipment for the job.
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures and never bypass or remove machine guards.
• Watch where you place your hands when setting objects down, stacking materials, or working near fixed structures.
