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1.2.1
Repetitive Motion
The use of power tools may involve highly repetitive motions of the fingers,
hands, wrists, and shoulders. These repetitive motions can lead to cumulative
trauma disorders (CTD). Many personal and workplace factors can contribute to
these disorders.
Currently available data have identified the following risk factors. These risk
factors are not necessarily causation factors of CTDs. The mere presence of a risk
factor does not necessarily mean there is excessive risk of injury. Generally, the
greater the exposure to a single risk factor or combination of factors the greater
the risk for CTDs.
•
Forceful exertions and motions
•
Extreme postures and motions
•
Repetitive exertions and motions
•
Intended duration of exertion, postures, motions, vibration, and cold
•
Insufficient rest or pauses
•
Work organization risk factors
•
Environmental risk factors
These risk factors span job design and content, operator training, work method,
work pace, work environment, proper tool selection and other work place factors
beyond the control of the tool manufacturer. Tool owners and employers should
analyze jobs for all of the risk factors identified above and take appropriate
action.
Some measures which may reduce the risk of CTDs:
•
Use minimum hand grip force consistent with proper control and safe
operation.
•
Keep wrists as straight as possible.
•
Avoid repetitive movements of the hands and wrists.
•
If wrist pain, hand tingling, numbness, or other disorders of the shoulders,
arm, wrist or finger occur; notify supervisor, discontinue task, reassign user
to a different job; if relief is not found contact experts skilled in treating such
disorders.
Wrist supports, torque reaction devices, and balancers should be used if it can be
determined that such devices can reduce the risk of repetitive motion disorders.
QPM DC Electric Tools
5
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