

Solution: Pipe Wrench Stand

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	Description:	The pipe wrench stand is a small vice-like device that holds one pipe wrench firmly in place, so that the user can concentrate on turning a second wrench while connecting or dismantling pipe fittings. A pipe wrench stand fits standard sized pipe wrenches (12”, 14”, and 18”). The pipe wrench stand is attached to a board the length of the wrench. One wrench is then secured with the jaws of the pipe wrench stand. The pipe is placed in the wrench and a second wrench is used to rotate a pipe fitting on the second half of the attachment joint. The compact size allows the pipe wrench stand to be used in confined spaces where it would be difficult to use two pipe wrenches independently or a full size tripod pipe vice. More Detail
	Risks Addressed:	Musculoskeletal disorders due to stressful hand & wrist activity. Additionally, a pipe wrench stand may address manual materials handling and overhead work.
	How Risks are Reduced:	While using multiple pipe wrenches, the possibility of injury is high due to the awkward push/pull motion required to use both wrenches. The pipe wrench stand allows the worker to only push or only pull on one wrench, thus reducing stressful hand and arm exertions. The compact size allows the pipe wrench stand to be used in confined areas which might include crawl spaces, attics, and or mechanical rooms. Having the ability to fit attachments at the site of work reduces manual material handling. Typically, pipes are assembled at centralized fabrication station and then carried to the site of use. Pipe wrench stands minimize handling of large, often awkward, sections of pipe. Finally, use of a pipe wrench stand reduces the stress of assembling pipe while reaching overhead. If a wrench were to slip off the material while assembling fixtures overhead, the large amount of torque placed on the wrench could cause a pipe wrench to strike the worker, and/or cause the worker to fall. Using a pipe wrench stand allows the majority of the joints to be assembled on the ground before the worker has to complete the final installation overhead.
	Quality of Evidence (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 no research studies have been conducted on pipe wrench stands, it is well established that the use of jigs and vices help decrease forceful hand and arm exertions.
	Effects on Productivity:	A pipe wrench stand has the capability of increasing productivity when used appropriately.
	Quality of Evidence (Effects on Productivity):	Manufacturers or vendors have reported an increase in productivity. Safety and health experts believe there is an increase in productivity.
	Quality of Evidence Explanation (Effects on Productivity):	Use of a pipe wrench stand should decrease fatigue in workers, allowing them to be more productive. Also, assembling fixtures on pipes at the point of use should reduce the number of trips necessary to transport long and often awkward lengths of pipe.
	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:	Pace Machinery Group Inc. / Atlanta Special Products Division (Wrench Master) For purchasing information, visit http://www.pace-asp.com/ or contact 1-800-327-3552 or sales@pace-asp.com
	Contributors:	Dan Anton, PT, PhD, ATC and Michael Milanoski, SPT – Eastern Washington University
	Hazards Addressed:	Residential Construction Install plumbing Stressful hand & wrist activity