But whatever the cause, the result can be loss or partial loss of the use of a hand. Fortunately Tran's quick thinking workmate knew how to try and save the finger. He placed it carefully in a plastic bag, then floated the bag in crushed ice and water before sending it to hospital in an ambulance with Tran. This fast action enabled surgeons to re-attach the finger. There are many reasons, according to the Sydney Hospital Hand Unit, a unit specialising in treating hand injuries.
Many hand injuries are a result of inexperience with machinery.
Tran's story shows how important it is for workers to be taught how to use equipment safely and to make sure they fully understand all instructions. Employees should also be shown all moving parts of a machine while it's at rest before they're expected to use it. But accidents happen to experienced people too - being familiar with equipment makes some people feel so confident they don't take enough care. Many injuries, including those with kitchen equipment or tools at home, happen when someone loses concentration for a moment. Whether you're chopping vegetables with a kitchen knife or cutting branches with a chainsaw, always pay careful attention to what you're doing.