Notice: Due to ongoing construction, 4 East is currently closed to the public.  To obtain items located on 4 East, please place an online request for the item to be paged for you using the ‘Place Request’ button in the catalog. Please visit our Circulation FAQ page for assistance in using our catalog.
Notice: Due to ongoing construction, 4 East is currently closed to the public.  To obtain items located on 4 East, please place an online request for the item to be paged for you using the ‘Place Request’ button in the catalog. Please visit our Circulation FAQ page for assistance in using our catalog.

Hand Tools

  • Keep light. Keep under 3 lbs if using with 1 hand and under 1 lb if doing precision work.
  • Distribution of weight should be balanced in the user’s hand.
  • Avoid twisting your hands and wrists. Keep your wrist straight. Bend the tool, not the wrist. Use angled handles or power tools when necessary.
  • Reduce excessive grip or pressure while holding or using the tools including force needed to use or turn on power tools.
  • Do not use awkward positions. Don’t raise shoulders or elbows. Reposition your work piece, stand, or lower the work surface.
  • Avoid repetitive motions. Rotate tasks.
  • Relax your grip between tasks.
  • Reduce vibrations from power tools.
  • Make sure the tool fits your hand and the handle is comfortable.
  • Use long handles with a length of 4-5.5 in and diameter of 1.5 in (example screwdriver) or .4 in precision items like tweezers.
  • Use fitted gloves.
  • Keep tools in good condition.
  • Use tool belts that are not on the body or distribute the weight over the body not just the waist. Keep it light.
  • TAKE BREAKS.

Sources and More Information:

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/electricalcontractors/installation/using.html

http://ehstoday.com/health/ergonomics/ehs_imp_37964

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2004-164/pdfs/2004-164.pdf