| Ergonomics |
SoftGrip™ Pipettes |
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The Best Ergonomic Pipette, Proven Scientifically in an Independent Study |
Use of the SoftGrip pipette decreases several of the risk factors associated with the development of repetitive stress injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome. |
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Less Force = Less Fatigue and Discomfort
Pipette actuation force measurements were taken for the three pipettting actuation forces: (1) Dispense Stop, (2) Blowout Stop and (3) Tip Eject. SoftGrip Pipettes require less than half the overall force when compared to a traditional pipette. |
Less Fatigue = Increased User Satisfaction
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Fatigue Experiment
Loss of strength was measured following a one-hour pipetting session. Power grip strength retention was more than five times better with SoftGrip pipettes. Pinch grip strength loss was nearly half that experienced with a traditional pipette. |
Discomfort rating
Using the widely accepted Borg 10 point scale for discomfort, the SoftGrip pipette showed less than half the discomfort experienced with a traditional pipette after a one hour pipetting session.
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Highest User Satisfaction
The SoftGrip pipette received the highest average score (out of 10) for 11 different aspects of a pipette, including plunger and eject forces, weight, diameter and texture.
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Ergonomics, Hamilton Pipettes and You |
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Ergonomics has become a critical factor in today's laboratories. Research has shown that use of traditional pipettes for more than 300 hours per year is associated with an increased risk of hand or shoulder ailments(1). To address the ergonomics issues facing laboratories, Hamilton pipettes were ergonomically designed to minimize the amount of fatigue and discomfort typically experienced in pipetting. Overall, use of Hamilton pipettes decreases several of the risk factors associated with the development of repetitive stress injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome. As proven in an independent study(2), Hamilton pipettes have the best ergonomic pipette design.
In addition to using an ergonomically designed pipette, there are several steps that should be taken in the laboratory to decrease the risk of pipette-related repetitive stress injuries. Take 1-2 minute breaks after every 20 minutes of pipetting, if possible. Alternate between tasks in the laboratory to minimize the duration of pipetting sessions. Ensure you are in an ergonomic workspace. The bench should be at the proper height and the chair should have an adjustable height with full back support. Your feet should not be dangling; the chair should provide a foot support or a bench should be available to rest your feet on. Use Hamilton AdvanTip Precision Pipette Tips to ensure a perfect fit on Hamilton pipettes for a positive seal without excess force during tip installation. The perfect fit minimizes tip eject forces.
(1) Bjorsten, M.G., B. Almby and E.S. Jansson, Hand and shoulder ailments among laboratory technicians using modern plunger-operated pipettes, Applied Ergonomics, 1994 25(2): 88-94.
(2)Study conducted by Ergonomic Engineering, Inc., 20 Gulf Road, Pelham, Massachusetts, 01002; Telephone (800) 375-ERGO(3746). For a complete copy of the study click Ergonomic Study or please contact Hamilton Company.
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