Ergonomics for Gardeners - Series 7 Article 2 - Applying ergonomic principles to common garden tasks

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By Marilyn Fishman 

When using hand tools
- Keep the wrists in a neutral position (wrist straight with thumbs up or wrapped around a tool handle to meet the forefinger) RI 9684 page 5


- Avoid bending or twisting the wrist to get that last weed or prune that last branch

- Cushioned grips and tools with grip handles may prevent wrists from bending forward or sideways

- Note that indentations in tool handles do not fit every hand

- Tool handles can be enlarged by wrapping with electrical tape and/or foam padding

- Some by-pass pruner models are easier on the wrist than others, but try before you buy

- Wear gloves to protect the hand. Gloves can also protect and cushion joints. In colder weather, keep the finger joints warm by wearing gloves with foam padding or wear disposable gloves (latex or nitrile) under gardening gloves

When using long handled tools


On shovels and spades
- Wikipedia defines a spade (from the Old English spadu) as a digging tool with a long shaft and a flattish rectangular bottom. A shovel has a broad concave blade for moving loose material as well as digging. The terms are used with complete confusion.  The Oxford English Dictionary defines shovel as a type of spade

- For a spade, the shaft should be as tall as, or taller, than the gardener, the blade can be straight or pointed

- A shovel has a shorter shaft (elbow height). Handle is “T” or “D” type. Some newer models have round handles, which may allow a grip with less strain on the wrists and arms

- Some newer shovels have serrated edges and a pointed blade for cutting through roots while digging

- Look for shovels or spades with a large step at the top of the blade to provide stability and help use lower-body strength when digging. Always wear sturdy footwear

- A unique shovel is the first ergonomically designed agricultural tool specifically for women.  The makers of “HERS” shovel have slide shows on safe shoveling for women.

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