Ergonomic Gardening Tools

May 10, 2010
If you have ever twisted and stretched while kneeling in the flowerbed, then you know that gardening can be physically challenging. Fortunately, ergonomic tools can help gardening enthusiasts avoid aches and pains, explains an expert from the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia.

“Ergonomic tools are designed around the gardener. They can significantly reduce discomfort and fatigue and reduce injuries,” said Paula Kramer, Ph.D., chair and professor of occupational therapy at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia.

In preparation for spring, Kramer shares the key ergonomic tools and tool features designed to make gardening easier:

  • One-piece construction. Trowels, weeders and cultivators made from one piece of metal from the top to the bottom allow for less possibility of breakage in the tool.
  • Padded handles. Hand tools with fat, padded handles and textured, non-slip grips allow for a tight grip under damp conditions. Tools with extendable handles help for reaching difficult areas and accommodate a person’s height. These long-handled tools should have some flexibility, but not too much. Telescopic and pistol-grip handles require less energy and keep the body in proper alignment.
  • Spring-action. Sheers, pruners and clippers with a spring-action, self-opening feature help to prevent strain on the muscles and joints, but they should be well oiled to open and close easily.
  • Modified shaft. Rakes, hoes and forks with a bend in the shaft make the upper part of the handle work in a more horizontal position than normal, enabling a person to have more upright posture and a fist grip at the end.
  • Garden caddy. Functional caddies can help protect your knees and back from strain and stooping with built in kneepads, a platform for sitting and a vessel to easily transport tools, mulch and heavy items.

While ergonomic tools may look radically different than normal gardening tools, Kramer cautions that not all “ergonomic” tools are created equal.

“Just because a tool says it is ergonomic doesn’t mean it’s ergonomic for you,” she said. “Try the tool out – it must fit your needs and your body.”

About the Author

Laura Walter

Laura Walter was formerly senior editor of EHS Today. She is a subject matter expert in EHS compliance and government issues and has covered a variety of topics relating to occupational safety and health. Her writing has earned awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) and APEX Awards for Publication Excellence. Her debut novel, Body of Stars (Dutton) was published in 2021.

Sponsored Recommendations

Committing to Safety: Why Leadership’s Role in Safety Excellence is Key

Jan. 13, 2025
Leadership has the power to transform an organization through their behavior and vision, which can result in the creation of an organizational culturethat supports safety excellence...

Speak Up! Cementing "See Something, Say Something" to Drive Safety

Jan. 13, 2025
Many organizations promote "see something, say something" to encourage their people to intervene and make work safe. But most don't go far enough to equip teams with the skills...

The Truth and Challenges of Cultivating Chronic Unease

Jan. 13, 2025
DEKRA announces its latest white paper, “The Truth and Challenges of Cultivating Chronic Unease,” as a definitive look into why being vulnerable to incidents strengthens our commitment...

Mitigating Risks: Strategies for Safeguarding Workers in Hazardous Workplaces

Jan. 13, 2025
Join our expert team in taking on the challenge to make safety part of your organization’s DNA as work, the workforce, and workplaces evolve.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!