Scout's Toolbox Talks

A pinch point is any spot where part of your body can be caught between two moving objects or a moving object and a stationary one. They’re common on construction sites, and they can cause serious injury or even permanent disability.

Why It Matters:
Every day, workers lose fingers, hands, or suffer crushing injuries because they underestimate pinch points. Pinch points exist everywhere — from machine moving parts and heavy materials to doors, tools, and equipment attachments. Being mindful of pinch points and knowing how to avoid them is critical for your safety and the safety of your coworkers.

Common Pinch Point Hazards Include:

• Machinery and heavy equipment with moving parts (gears, belts, pulleys).
• Hinged or sliding parts like doors, tailgates, and dumpsters.
• Stacked or stored materials that could shift suddenly.
• Heavy equipment (forklifts, loaders) and their attachments.
• Handheld power tools or manual tools with scissor-like action (bolt cutters, pliers).

Key Points:

• Stay aware and alert: Always pay attention to your surroundings and what your hands, feet, or body could be caught between.
• Keep your distance: Stay out of the "line of fire," the direct path between two objects that could pinch or crush.
• Use proper hand placement: Never place your hands near moving parts or in areas where they might become trapped.
• Wear proper gloves: Gloves can provide some protection, but never rely on gloves alone. Proper positioning and awareness are critical.
• Secure materials properly: Prevent materials or equipment from shifting by securing, blocking, or chocking them adequately.
• Communicate clearly: Use clear hand signals, verbal calls, or radios when moving materials or equipment around other workers.
• Don’t rush tasks: Moving too quickly often leads to mistakes and increases your risk of injury from pinch points.

Real-Life Scenario:
A worker on a site reached into a forklift mast area to adjust a load strap. The mast unexpectedly shifted downward, pinning his hand and causing severe injury. The worker knew better but rushed the job to save time. The result? Permanent loss of function in his hand and months of lost work time.

✅ Take the extra second to assess your surroundings. No job is worth losing a hand or finger.

Ask the Crew:

• Have you spotted potential pinch points in your current tasks today?
• Are we rushing tasks that might expose us to pinch point risks?
• How can we better secure materials to avoid unexpected shifts or pinches?

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