Information on this page is drawn from "Installation and Repair: Using Tools" published by OSHA

NOTE: Request for permission pending.

Potential Hazards

• Loaded tool belts may weigh over 50 pounds (Figure 8), causing an increased load and contact stress on the lower back and hips.

Figure 8
Tool bag on a tool belt.

• Suspenders used to hold the tool belt may cause shoulder contact stress and discomfort.

• Wearing a tool belt for an extended period of time may cause fatigue, discomfort and pain.

Possible Solutions

• Use mobile tool box or bucket-style tool bag (Figure 9) instead of a tool belt.

Figure 9
Tools placed on a hand truck.

• Use padded belts and suspenders to evenly distribute the weight between the shoulders and the waist, thus reducing contact stress.

• Arrange tools in bags so that their weight is distributed evenly.

• When possible, reduce the weight of the tool belt by reducing the number of tools carried to those necessary for the task.

• Use a backpack-style tool bag to distribute the weight of tools over the body and improve posture if tools must be carried for extended distances.

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Installation and Repair: Using Tools!foldingtruck8.jpg!