The number of hand injuries at the workplace fell by 26 per cent between 2009 and 2010, according to the Health Minister.

Speaking during a conference on Hand Awareness Day, Joseph Cassar said last year about 1,068 palm injuries were registered, down from 1,446. The typical profile of those who suffer such injuries is men aged between 25 and 34 who work full-time. Many have families with young children.

Hand injuries, Dr Cassar said, left a big economic and social impact on the individual and the country. This sort of injury translated into productivity loss, social benefits and care and rehabilitation costs.

He appealed to the public to be extra cautious at the workplace. “These incidents have serious implications for the physical, psychological and financial aspects of the workers involved,” he said, adding that many workers had to change job or stop working due to such injuries.

He welcomed the drop in accidents and commended the professionals involved in the care of such injuries.

He also praised the Occupational Health and Safety Authority, which organised the conference together with the Occupational Therapy Department.

Dr Cassar noted there was still a need for measures to be taken to reduce the number of such injuries still further. “It’s a pity that many times these incidents take place because of negligence or because protective clothing is not worn.”