Lifting various building materials, including plywood, particle board, sheet metal, ducts, glass, and granite can cause injuries to the wrist and hands such as Carpal tunnel syndrome.  Carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel of the wrist, responsible for feeling and movement. While lifting material, the possibility of injury is high due to the exertion placed on the hand and fingers.  The panel gripper provides a comfortable and high-surface area handle while gripping the material. 

Lifting these building materials may also require stooping.  High compression forces occur in the spine while stooping, and sustained or repeated flexion of the spine may decrease the stability of the lower back.  Decreased stability and higher compression forces can lead to injury and low back pain.  Workers can use a panel gripper to clamp and lift materials from the top of the pile rather than the bottom.

The design of the Gorilla Gripper® eliminates the need for workers to manually handle and carry building materials. Instead of grasping the material with their hands, a worker only has to hold onto the handle of the Gorilla Gripper®. Using the Gorilla Gripper® decreases the need to be in a stooped posture during lifting tasks. For example, a worker would normally need to stoop when lifting plywood to grasp both edges of the sheet. With the Gorilla Gripper®, the sheet can be lifted with a grip on only one edge. Due to the design of the Gorilla Gripper®, materials are able to be held closer to the body which decreases stress on the entire arm and low back.

• Manufacturers, vendors, or worksites have reported a risk reduction.
• Safety and health experts believe there is a risk reduction.

Manufacturers report that the Gorilla Gripper® reduces strain on the back, neck, shoulders, and arm. When carrying large sheets of plywood, sheetrock, or metal without the Gorilla Gripper®, a worker may carry the material above or away from the body. The Gorilla Gripper® allows the material to be held from waist to shoulder height and close to the body, which helps the worker maintain a neutral spine position. Reviews from customers indicate that the Gorilla Gripper® makes lifting easier, reduces fatigue, and may help to decrease incidence of injury.

Using the Gorilla Gripper® may increase productivity due to decreased worker fatigue and time spent on lifting tasks.

• Manufacturers or vendors have reported an increase in productivity.

Manufacturers report that the Gorilla Gripper® causes less fatigue and can increase productivity on the worksite. Customer reviews report that lifting tasks were able to be completed faster with less worker fatigue. In some situations, fewer workers were needed to complete these tasks and extra workers could be delegated to other jobs on the construction site.

Gorilla Gripper
For purchasing information visit www.gorillagripper.com or contact 1-805-523-1800 or sales@gorillagripper.com

The Gorilla Gripper® changes the mechanics of carrying building materials. The tool may help a worker maneuver in tight spaces, maintain an unobstructed view, and reduce the risk of sustaining cuts from sharp edges.

Dan Anton, PT, PhD, ATC – Eastern Washington University