Solution Summary: Ergonomic Paint Applicators
Ergonomic paint applicators are paintbrush and roller handles that are designed to allow painting with a more neutral position of the hand and wrist.
Description:
Ergonomic paint applicators are engineering controls that may reduce stressful hand and wrist activities that are common hazards workers face while painting. Ergonomic paint applicators allow a more neutral position of the hand and wrist while painting.
Painters often work in positions that are stressful on the hand and wrist. Ergonomic paint applicators allow painting with a more neutral position of the hand and wrist. For example, the ergonomic paintbrush handle designed by Proform Technologies Inc. allows the forearm, wrist, and hand to maintain a more neutral position while painting (Figure 1). The handle of the paintbrush by Proform Technologies Inc. was designed to be used with a neutral position of the wrist. The design improves comfort while maintaining control of brush bristles. The ergonomic paintbrush is available in brush sizes 1½”, 2”, 2½”, and 3”. Bristle options are available in straight or angular and handles are available in plastic or wood.
Figure 1. Proform Technologies, Inc. Ergonomic Paintbrush (Photo courtesy of Proform Technologies, Inc.)
Risks Addressed:
Stressful hand and wrist activity can cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as muscle strains; tendonitis, which is inflammation of elbow and wrist tendons; or carpal tunnel syndrome, which is compression of a wrist nerve, resulting in finger numbness and loss of hand strength. The ergonomic paint applicator can help reduce stressful hand and wrist activity by allowing painting to be performed with the hand and wrist in a more neutral position.
How Risks are Reduced:
Stressful hand and wrist activities can cause muscle strains; tendonitis, which is inflammation of elbow and wrist tendons; or carpal tunnel syndrome, which is compression of a wrist nerve, resulting in finger numbness and loss of hand strength. Ergonomic paint applicators allow painting to be performed with the hand and wrist in a more neutral position reducing stressful hand and wrist activities associated with painting.
The manufacturer of the ergonomic paintbrush designed by Proform Technologies Inc. states that the paint brush “reduces stressful positions and motions of the hand, wrist and forearm” and that “the bottom line is that the brush allows you to be a better painter and not have to worry about injury.”
Safety and health experts also believe that it is easier on the body to use a neutral hand position with hand tools, such as paintbrushes.
Effects on Productivity:
Ergonomic paint applicators increase productivity on the worksite.
Additional Considerations:
The pipe painter requires a specific roller cover that fits the segmented design of the frame. The roller cover must be purchased separately to refill the frame.
Hazards Addressed:
- Paints & Coatings
- Paint doors
- Paint exteriors with spray gun, brush or roller
- Paint interiors with spray gun, brush or roller
- Paint machinery, piping, signs, etc.
Availability
Proform Technologies, Inc. Ergonomic Professional paintbrush
To obtain information, visit www.proformtech.com
or contact 1-307-857-6643 service@proformtech.com
