Ergonomic Tools: A Simple Way to Prevent MSDs

Tools should be designed to help workers maintain a neutral body position and avoid:

• Twisting
• Vibration
• Static muscle loading
• Pressure on tissue and joints

Other important considerations:

• Use supports or counterweights to minimize the weight of the tool.
• Tool shape should help prevent awkward wrist or shoulder postures.
• Balanced tools will help prevent strain on the wrist.

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Design Counts

Handle size impacts the amount of force and muscle strain needed to hold the tool. Handles should:

• Fit the individual user’s hand
• Be long enough so that the end does not press into the palm or wrist
• Have rounded edges
• Be made of compressible and nonslippery material
• Minimize the transfer of vibration to the hand

Other important design features:

• The power control of the tool should not require extra force to turn the tool on/off or to keep it operating. Buy power tools with an automatic start/stop feature.
• Avoid triggers that require high tension with one finger.
• Variable torque settings help to minimize rotational forces.

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Safety Training Presentation topics covered include:

• Bloodborne Pathogens
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• Lockout/Tagout
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