Hand and Wrist Protection for Skid Steer Operators

[MikePhua]

Skid steer loaders are essential pieces of equipment used across many industries, particularly in construction, agriculture, and landscaping. While these machines are prized for their versatility and maneuverability, they also pose several risks to operators, especially regarding hand and wrist injuries. Protecting the hands and wrists of skid steer operators is critical, not only to improve safety but also to enhance comfort and prevent long-term injury. In this article, we explore the need for better hand and wrist protection, the common risks faced by operators, and potential solutions for improving safety.
The Importance of Hand and Wrist Protection for Skid Steer Operators
Skid steer loaders are compact, powerful machines used for a variety of tasks, including digging, lifting, and moving materials. Operators are seated in a small cabin, often working in confined spaces with limited visibility. The operation of these machines requires a combination of precision, speed, and control, often involving repetitive movements and exertion on the hands and wrists. As a result, operators are at risk of acute injuries as well as long-term musculoskeletal disorders.
Hand and wrist protection is vital for several reasons:

1. Prevention of Acute Injuries: Operating skid steers often involves sudden, forceful movements that can lead to hand or wrist injuries. In particular, operators can experience injuries from controlling the joystick, adjusting attachments, or responding quickly to machine movement.
   
2. Minimizing Long-Term Strain: Continuous operation can lead to repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or sprains. These conditions result from the overuse of muscles and tendons, often caused by poor ergonomics or improper protective measures.
   
3. Enhanced Comfort: Protective equipment can not only safeguard the hands and wrists but also enhance the comfort of the operator, reducing fatigue and allowing for more prolonged work without discomfort.
   

Common Risks Faced by Skid Steer Operators
Skid steer operators face several types of risks related to hand and wrist injuries. These include both physical impacts from the machine and conditions resulting from poor ergonomics:

1. Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs)
   Operating a skid steer often requires repetitive movements, such as gripping, pushing, and pulling the control levers. Over time, these repetitive motions can lead to tendon inflammation, joint pain, or nerve compression, commonly referred to as RSIs. For example, a significant percentage of workers in the construction industry experience carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis due to the constant flexing of their wrists.
   
2. Impact Injuries
   The forceful vibrations and rapid movements of the skid steer can lead to sudden impacts on the hands and wrists. Operators are vulnerable to getting their hands caught or injured when engaging with attachments or working in tight spaces where the controls are harder to manage.
   
3. Fatigue
   The nature of skid steer operation demands constant focus and physical exertion. Long working hours, especially in challenging conditions, can contribute to muscle fatigue in the hands, wrists, and forearms. This fatigue reduces overall performance and increases the likelihood of accidents.
   
4. Machine Vibration
   Skid steers generate significant vibrations, especially during heavy tasks such as lifting or digging. Continuous exposure to these vibrations can cause hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), a condition that affects the blood vessels and nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, and a reduction in grip strength.
   
5. Poor Ergonomics
   A poorly adjusted seat or control setup can force the operator to adopt awkward wrist positions, increasing the strain on their joints and muscles. Over time, improper ergonomics can contribute to chronic pain and RSIs.
   

Design Considerations for Hand and Wrist Protection
When designing protective gear or modifying skid steer cabins for better safety, several factors must be considered to ensure optimal protection without compromising the operator’s mobility and performance. These factors include:

1. Ergonomic Joystick Design
   Joysticks are the primary means of controlling skid steers, and their design plays a significant role in reducing wrist strain. Joysticks should be ergonomically designed to minimize hand and wrist strain. This includes options such as adjustable grips, cushioned handles, and buttons placed in such a way that operators don’t have to overextend their wrists to operate them.
   
2. Gloves with Vibration Dampening
   Operator gloves should feature padding and vibration-dampening materials to reduce the impact of machine vibrations on the hands and wrists. Special gloves with gel inserts or foam padding can absorb shocks and minimize the risk of conditions like HAVS. Additionally, gloves should be durable enough to withstand frequent contact with controls while maintaining flexibility.
   
3. Wrist Supports or Braces
   For operators who experience wrist discomfort or have existing injuries, wrist supports or braces can be invaluable. These supports can help stabilize the wrist, reduce the risk of strain, and prevent further injury. Adjustable wrist straps can also offer customized support to suit different operators.
   
4. Seat and Control Adjustments
   Providing adjustable seating and control systems can go a long way in preventing hand and wrist injuries. Seat height, angle, and position should be adjustable to allow operators to work with their hands and wrists in a neutral and comfortable position. Additionally, adjustable joysticks or controls can be customized to fit the operator’s natural hand movements, reducing unnecessary wrist flexion or extension.
   
5. Control Layout Optimization
   Optimizing the control layout in the cabin can help reduce the strain on the operator’s hands. Controls should be easily accessible without the operator needing to overreach or stretch. The arrangement should also minimize the need for frequent gripping or awkward hand positions.
   

Innovations in Skid Steer Hand Protection
Some manufacturers are already experimenting with innovative designs to improve the ergonomics and safety of skid steers, focusing on reducing hand and wrist injuries.

1. Automated Joystick Adjustments
   Some newer skid steer models feature joystick systems that automatically adjust based on the operator’s needs, providing optimal control and reducing strain on the hands and wrists. This automation allows for a more comfortable, tailored experience for different operators.
   
2. Vibration-Absorbing Handrails and Joysticks
   Manufacturers have been introducing vibration-dampening systems in handrails and joysticks. These systems utilize advanced materials like rubber mounts or fluid-filled components to absorb vibrations before they reach the operator's hands and wrists, significantly reducing the risk of HAVS.
   
3. Exoskeletons and Wearable Technology
   Some companies are exploring exoskeletons and wearable devices designed to reduce the physical strain on workers, including skid steer operators. These devices assist with heavy lifting, help maintain proper posture, and can be fitted with sensors to track strain on the operator's joints and muscles.
   

Conclusion and Recommendations
Hand and wrist protection for skid steer operators is not just a matter of comfort; it's a critical component of safety. By incorporating ergonomic designs, utilizing protective gear, and optimizing machine features, manufacturers and operators can significantly reduce the risk of injuries. Regular maintenance of the equipment, alongside the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), will also help mitigate long-term damage. As the demand for skid steers continues to grow, it's crucial that the industry invests in improving the safety and ergonomics of these machines, ultimately creating a safer working environment for all operators.