Ergonomic Improvements in Manufacturing

Whether your manufacturing staff is assembling components used for electronics, aircraft, automobiles, or appliances, it's important to identify potential ergonomic risk factors. Power tools, both electric and pneumatic type, generally produce unwanted torque reaction that transfers over to an operator's hand. After a while, the daily fastening process will expose your operators to repetitive stress injuries, which can impact him or her anywhere from the neck down to the fingers. The results of work-related injuries affect productivity, employee absenteeism, as well as costly workers' compensation claims and litigation expenses.

Making the assembly station more ergonomic and protecting employees is a vital objective for any manufacturing organization. The goal is to minimize strain and stress on the assemblers' bodies. Following good ergonomic practices will contribute to the overall safety, comfort and health of employees. Ergonomics should be a team effort. Actively having the assembly operators involved in the ergonomic discussion will allow them to help identify any areas of concern and improvement.

Ergonomic torque arms are designed to absorb any torque transfer from the tool to the operator. The telescoping torque arm is a popular ergonomic solution that can be utilized for a variety of assembly tools and applications. The torque reaction arms are ideal for assembly lines like automotive, aerospace, appliance and electronics, where space is a premium and operator safety is mandatory.

Constructed with lightweight durable carbon fiber the torque arm collapses like a telescope. The long reach capacity and the effortless handling of the workstation arm provides comfortable tool operation and increased production. (Watch the telescoping arm in action at an automotive assembly plant — view video).

The ergonomic design of the EZ-Glider telescoping torque arm by Mountz, reduces RMI (repetitive motion injury) and CTS (carpal tunnel syndrome). The torque arms eliminate torque reaction for the most power and pneumatic assembly tools. There are torque arm models engineered for light industrial fastening applications, as well as telescoping arms for high torque bolting applications. These workstation arms provide manufacturers the ability to mount the arms to a wall, workbench, a standard rail system, aluminum extrusion, or existing overhead system. The torque arms are maintenance-free.

The ergonomic arm keeps the power tool suspended above the assembly station, which protects a tool from being accidentally dropped. No need for additional tooling expenses. Assembly operators often spend long periods standing and/or performing repetitive motions and lifting over the course of their shift. These arms eliminate that burden. An ergonomic mindset helps ensure safer conditions.

Securely keeping an electric or pneumatic driver in alignment with the fastener, the torque arm prevents cross-threading occurring during the assembly process. These tool support systems help remove the operator's influence during the fastening process and strengthens quality control.

Using an ergonomic torque arm makes a safer world through accuracy and precision. Mountz offers a variety of torque arm options to meet the various assembly applications and requirements.

Prevent the risk of employee injuries and additional expenses with an ergonomic solution. Need assistance with selecting the proper ergonomic torque arm solution? We are happy to help, contact us. You can also request an appointment for a Mountz representative to visit your facility and provide a product demonstration.