How to Choose and Use Tools to Prevent Ergonomic Injuries

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By Kristie Raburn
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Article Rating: (7 Ratings)

No matter what work you do, do it safely!

Poor ergonomics is a task or tool that exposes you to frequent repetitive motions on a machine, a computer keyboard, packing machines, cutting machines and so forth. Ergonomic injuries can result from a forceful exertion of your arm or hand to complete a task, equipment vibration while using a tool or maintaining an awkward position while working. To prevent injuries from repetitive or extensive tool usage, keep in mind the following safety tips.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Understanding of the risks and effects of ergonomic injuries
Knowledge of ways to prevent self-injuries

Step 1

Keep your hands warm when using hand tools or machinery. Cold hands are easily injured as they can not grip the tools properly, causing tools to slip and hurt you.
Step 2

For any task, always select tools that are easy to hold, comfortable in your hand and do not require extreme effort to operate. Tools should be lightweight and easy to grip properly.
Step 3

Select the right tool for the right job. In other words, do not use a butter knife as a screw driver or a wrench as a hammer. Make sure the tool you use is the right size for the task you are doing. This is especially important when selecting a screwdriver – the blade must fit the screw correctly or the screwdriver may slip and stab your hand.
Step 4

When you grip a tool, make sure it fits your hand. Your thumb and index finger should overlap slightly around the tool handle. If they do not, the tool is too big for your hands and your grip will be weak. Select your tools to the size of your hand, not the size of the project.
Step 5

Do not bend your wrist when using tools as this can cause joint injuries. Use clamps, clips or jigs to avoid awkward positions and bent wrists. Consider using a wrist guard to prevent bending the wrist in an uncomfortable position.
Step 6

Avoid vibration injuries by using any equipment that vibrates at the lowest efficient speed necessary to complete the job. This is particularly important when using a power sander or buffer. Slow the speed down to reduce the vibration and you will maintain better control of the equipment.
Step 7

Know what tools you need to get the job done safely. Selecting a tool that fits you, is easy to use and is comfortable in your hands will prevent injuries and unnecessary trips to the emergency room or doctor’s office.

Comments

sanderdoe said

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on 7/11/2009 These are great tips for people who work with tools. Many don't think about ergonomic injuries when they are working. I will pass this along to our employees. Thanks! 5*

shenandoah said

on 6/20/2009 Great tips! I wear one of those quickie back braces when I'm doing strenuous work, it helps alot. Now if I would follow your advice about tools... (~.~)

goldiec said

on 6/20/2009 Great tips on how to choose and use tools to prevent ergonomic injuries! 5* At one point in my life I had carpal tunnel and that was so painful so these tips are good to know.