Picture courtesy of Matichon

 

A saxophonist has shared a cautionary tale after his hand was injured by a washing machine spinner, leading to the partial amputation of his finger. The incident highlights the dangers of operating household appliances without taking proper precautions.

 

On 12 January, at approximately 20.00, 26-year-old Atthaphon Kankhuntod, a freelance saxophonist from Sung Noen, Nakhon Ratchasima, was performing household chores when he heard a loud banging noise coming from his semi-automatic washing machine. The sound, caused by clothes hitting the lid of the spin-drying drum, prompted him to intervene.

 

Atthaphon turned off the machine and opened the lid while the drum was still spinning. Unfortunately, a bedsheet cord wrapped around his right index finger, pulling it into the drum for about five seconds. Upon freeing himself, he discovered a severe laceration and a fractured bone in his finger.

 

He was rushed to Sung Noen Hospital and later transferred to Maharaj Hospital, where X-rays revealed tendon and nerve damage that could not be repaired. Doctors had no choice but to amputate the upper portion of his index finger.

 

The washing machine involved had recently been repaired with a new motor, which was incompatible with its original stopping mechanism. As a result, the drum continued spinning even when the lid was opened, contrary to standard safety features.

 

Speaking from his home, which doubles as a beauty salon, Atthaphon expressed his dismay: “As a musician, I rely on my fingers for my livelihood. I’ll need to relearn how to play with my remaining fingers. I want to urge others to ensure their appliances are functioning safely and to always wait for the drum to stop spinning before opening the lid.”

 

-- 2025-01-15

 

 

3 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

The washing machine involved had recently been repaired with a new motor, which was incompatible with its original stopping mechanism. As a result, the drum continued spinning even when the lid was opened, contrary to standard safety features.

So, hopefully no professional Thai repairman did that work. 😂