DID YOU KNOW?
The western tradition of wedding rings can be traced back to ancient Egypt — but wearing one on the job can lead to serious injury. [3]
KNOW THE RISK
- Wedding rings and other jewelry are common in the workplace, but they can catch on ladders, scaffolding, or machinery — leading to severe hand injuries.
- There have been documented cases of rings catching on rungs, hooks, or bolts during ladder use, causing falls or traumatic injuries.
- Degloving is a serious injury where skin and soft tissue are violently pulled away from the hand — and rings are a common culprit. [2]
- Even a simple gold band can catch unexpectedly and hold with surprising force, causing damage in seconds.
MITIGATE THE RISK
1. Remove Jewelry Before Work
- Always take off rings and jewelry before using ladders, tools, or machinery. Leave them in a safe place or locker. [1]
2. Avoid Jewelry Around Machinery
- Loose rings, necklaces, and bracelets can get caught in moving equipment — increasing your risk of amputation or crushing injuries.
3. Consider Silicone Alternatives
- If you regularly work with your hands, consider wearing a breakaway silicone ring designed to snap under pressure and prevent injury.
HAND SAFETY REMINDER
That small ring on your finger could become a big hazard. Take a moment to remove jewelry before work — especially when using ladders or equipment. It’s a simple step that could save your hand.