Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00406:body:0:p14
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00406
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 45673–48277

be a source of risk, for example unpredictable movements requiring sudden forces to control.

Tools
Tools that are unsuitable for the task can be a source of risk by increasing the force required, or by promoting sustained or awkward postures. Risks can arise from:
Weight – heavy hand tools, particularly if held for long periods of time, increase the force and effort required to perform a task, for example, a 3kg power drill used on an assembly line.
Balance – if the heaviest part of the tool is in front of the wrist, the force required to grip the tool and stop it tilting forward is increased.
Handle design – if the handle diameter is too large or too small, the grip span of the hand will create awkward postures and greater force will be required to control the tool. A handle that is too short or has prominent edges, can result in damaging compression of the palm.
Handle orientation – if the handle design does not place the wrist in a handshake position, the worker will need to use an awkward posture to operate the tool. Tools that cannot be adapted for use by both hands or are designed for right-handed use only can result in awkward postures and increased force.
Shock loading and impact – tools that deliver impacts such as hammers, hammer drills, and nail guns transmit impact forces to various ligaments and can require the use of a firmer grip to maintain control. They are a particular source of risk if used repetitively and for long periods.
Prolonged use – continued use of any hand tool (even tools that are well suited to the user and designed for the task) without adequate time to recover will increase risk of injury due to the sustained force to support it.  In particular, vibrating tools increase risk.
Maintenance – poorly maintained or irregular service of tools and equipment may increase the effort needed to use them. For example, an unsharpened knife will increase the force required to bone and slice meat.

Consider the systems of work
Systems of work, or the way work is organised, can influence the physical and mental demands that a manual task places on a worker. The fatigue and strain (physical and mental) that may arise from the aspects of work (task demands, task control and resources and support provided) bring on physiological responses such as increased muscular tension and affect the function of muscles, nerves and blood vessels, increasing the risk of the worker developing an MSD.
The sources of risk include:
    * time constraints
    * pace and flow of work across the working day or shift
    * ability for workers to influence workload