Ergonomic Investigation of Hand Tools (Case Study : Bottle Opener)

Noor Rahimi, Idiris (2007) Ergonomic Investigation of Hand Tools (Case Study : Bottle Opener). Project Report. UTeM, Melaka, Malaysia. (Submitted)

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Abstract

Hand and finger force data are used in many settings, including industrial design and indicating progress during rehabilitation. Forceful exertion of the hand is considerable stress endured by users of hand tools that may also be one of the factors that lead to the development of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). The application of appropriate work design principles, during the design of tools and workstations that involve the use of the hand and fingers, may minimize upper extremity injuries within the workplace. Whether ergonomics is handled by plant teams, safety professionals, or trained ergonomists, there is often a need for systematic assessments to identify and quantify injury risk and opportunity potential. Ergonomic analysis tools are designed to meet these needs. This study is about ergonomic investigation of hand tools which focusing on bottle opener. The investigation concentrates on ergonomic analysis tools that are RULA analysis, ACGIH TLV and Strain Index. This study examined whether exerted finger force could be analyze using the ergonomic analysis tools. Following the methodology, firstly ergonomic analysis tools were investigated by analyzing the activity of opening bottle. The data of pinching and gripping strength were taken among Malaysian population. Data of grip strength and pinch strength are crucial in designing hand tools. Hand tools design that properly fit the user will help reduce cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs) and carpal tunnel syndrome in tasks that involve gripping and pinching. Hopefully in the future there will be ergonomic analysis tools to analyze finger force and prevent any injuries.

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