

Solution: Bucket Handle Cover

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	Description:	A bucket handle cover is a two-piece handle that snaps over the existing handle of any five-gallon bucket, increasing gripping surface. Most plastic buckets purchased today come standard with a thin plastic handle no more than a ½ inch in diameter. The weight of a five-gallon bucket filled to capacity can be as much as 40-60 lbs. When lifting loads of this weight, a small grip focuses the weight of the load across a small surface area, increasing stress on the hand and fingers. A bucket handle cover is a two-piece mechanism that attaches over the standard bucket handle. This cover increases the handle diameter to 1 ½ – 2 inches which helps to distribute the strain of the load over a larger surface area. More Detail
	Risks Addressed:	If a grip is too small it puts excessive pressure and strain on the hands and if the grip is too large it can reduce the grip strength of the hand. Both situations can lead to hand and wrist injuries.
	How Risks are Reduced:	A bucket handle cover reduces the risk of diminished strength and increased exertion of the hands. By using a grip with a diameter within the range of 31 – 50 mm, the worker can displace the exertion force created on the hand more evenly.
	Quality of Evidence (Risk Reduction):	Independent published studies have found a risk reduction. Manufacturers, vendors, or worksites have reported a risk reduction. Safety and health experts believe there is a risk reduction.
	Quality of Evidence Explanation (Risk Reduction):	Although specific studies on bucket handles have not been performed, numerous research has been conducted on tool handle diameter and shape. The results of these studies suggest that the optimal diameter of a handle should be in the range of 1.22 inches – 1.96 inches (31 – 50 mm). Diameters at the lower end of the range aide in improving dexterity and diameters at the upper end of the range help to improve torque.
	Effects on Productivity:	Productivity may be indirectly improved since use of the bucket handle cover makes manual material handling more comfortable.
	Quality of Evidence (Effects on Productivity):	Safety and health experts believe there is an increase in productivity.
	Quality of Evidence Explanation (Effects on Productivity):	Bucket handle covers help to spread the stress of carrying throughout the hand improving worker comfort. In general, workers who are more comfortable are likely to be more productive regardless of the task.
	Return on Investment:	To calculate the return on investment (ROI) for your specific application, please visit our Return on Investment Calculator. While a specific ROI example has not been developed for this particular solution, the ROI Calculator provides a useful tool and guidance on how to generate your own on investment analysis.
	Availability:	Eagle Grip Handles Inc. For purchasing information visit http://www.eaglegriphandles.com or contact EAGLEGRIP@SBCGLOBAL.NET
	Additional Considerations:	A bucket handle cover may also be attached to other items to make them easier to handle. Examples include straps around heavy materials such as rebar or wire fencing, making it easier to transport these items.
	Contributors:	Dan Anton, PT, PhD, ATC and Michael Milanoski, SPT – Eastern Washington University
	Hazards Addressed:	Masonry, Tile, Cement & Plaster Mix cement, mortar, plaster, or grout Stressful hand & wrist activity
	Sources:	"Tool time: Simple products with plenty to offer," Masonry Magazine, May 2005, p. 32.