subject: Ergonomic tools and attachments explained [print this page] Ergonomic tools and attachments explained
Ergonomic tools and attachments are now widely used and there are many good examples on the market today. It has to be said that all ergonomic tools are tested before reaching the open market in order to be the best they possibly can. Many attachments which make bending and using a shovel easier and reducing the strain placed on the back are now also widely used and again there are some great attachments on the market. When an attachment which provides a separate handle is designed for spades, shovels, brooms e.t.c, the action that is analysed is the bending down action. Scientific reports are devised and the actual tool being tested is analysed under several different circumstances and lifting various weights. If an attachment is designed to fit a shovel for example, tests will be carried out as to which parts of the body strain is placed upon. The shovel or spade will be used firstly on its own and then again with the attachment secured on the spade. It is well known that the lumber regions and the lower back are particularly vulnerable areas for injury when carrying out various lifting and shovelling activities. Attachments placed on to other tools are designed to reduce the bending action and although some bending will naturally occur, with the attachments the bending is reduced and so therefore reducing the stress and strain placed upon the back. Other joints in the body also see a marked improvement, with both the knees and the shoulders showing reduced ranges of motions. As mentioned above there are many ergonomic tools out there and more and more people are becoming aware of the benefits. We live in an age where gardening is seeing a new era, with many people wanting to grow their own vegetables and even for some, keep chickens. Gardening can be extremely good exercise and is very enjoyable and by selecting the right tools, you can ensure that you keep stress and strain to the body to a minimum. Because ergonomic tools have become more popular, there are consequently a lot of tools to choose from and the best way to make sure you have the right tool for you is to go and try some different ones out.
