Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission Issue Hazard Alert: Traumatic Amputation of Digits
Iqaluit, NU (April 15, 2016) – Today, the Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission (WSCC) release a Hazard Alert, advising Northerners to exercise caution and use safe work practices to prevent amputation of digits(s) in doorways.
A worker suffered traumatic amputation of the tips of the fourth and fifth digits of the right hand while operating an electrically-driven garage door. The open button was pressed with their left hand, and they failed to remove their right hand out of the way of the track and rollers.
Recommendations on how to prevent recurrence:
- Ensure that all employees are instructed in the use of automated garage door use.
- Position the operational controls at a position where the operator cannot come into contact with moving parts.
- Ensure controls have a fail-safe mechanism (i.e. a dead man’s switch).
- Install audible/visible alarms to alert workers when the garage door is opening and closing.
- Ensure (if installed) the safety devices installed on the garage door are functioning and operational.
The WSCC cautions Northerners to always pay attention to their surroundings, conduct hazard assessments to ensure their work spaces are free of hazards, and implement controls to prevent incidents.
Workplace accidents and injuries are preventable. Employers and workers share the responsibility of ensuring their workplace remains a safe environment for all. For more information, refer to the attached Hazard Alert.
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Ashley Makohoniuk
Acting Manager, Communications
T: (867) 669-4416
TF: (800) 661-0792 ext. 4416