Pipe Wrench Stand
This page consists from information from John Young COHP, University of Massachusetts Lowell and first presented from eLCOSH.com. The pdf file this information was obtained from can be found at the bottom of the page.
Background
Pipe wreneches are handy tools but potentially can be dangerous and difficult to use. Users must exert lots of energy to work with these tools along side the constant danger of injury. While operating with this tool users put heavy strains on their body because of the restraints created by the tool in work areas.
The Problem
The issue with the pipe wrench stand is it is big, heavy and difficult to use. This leads to heavy strains placed on the body.
- "It's just not easy, trying to hold two pipe wrenches -- one in each hand -- to work with pipe and fittings," says
John Young. A longtime member of Local 367 of the Plumbers and Steamfitters Unions in Alaska, In close quarters, it's even worse. You waste a lot of time crawling in and out -- causing pain too. A tripod pipe vice is supposed to solve the problem, but you can't get it in most cramped spaces where we work a lot. Besides, it weighs about 40 pounds and doesn't fit in a small tool box."
A major issue with the tool is that users must spend majority of their time crawling in and out of spaces while operating it. This leads to a vast amount of time being spent crawling instead of repairing.
The Solution: a light wrench support
John Young developed an addition to the original tool called the "Wrench Master" support stand is lightweight aluminum and small enough to fit in a tool box. It won't spark in hazardous areas. It can turn a pipe wrench into a pipe vise, leaving users with a free hand to hold a pipe or fittings.
- The stand fits all brand-name pipe wrenches. It can be adapted for use on a work bench or soft ground.
- Modified during the last five years, now it is patented by a Portland, Oregon die casting firm.
Potential
This kind of tool support can be used in other constructiontrades. Young suggests it can be used for changing drill bits or by concrete workers who use a pipe vice to loosen bolts and nuts.
