The Critical Need for No Touch Tools

The statistics speak volumes about the importance of hand safety in industrial operations. Hand injuries represent over 50% of all injuries in the workplace, with over a quarter million people suffering serious hand injuries each year. In rigging operations specifically, hand and finger injuries are among the most common injuries, especially in the oil and gas industries.

These injuries occur because these professionals often need to touch, manipulate, and position loads with their hands, putting them at risk of being caught between objects, struck by moving materials, or injured by pinch points. No Touch Tools provide a simple yet effective solution to eliminate these risks by keeping hands away from potential danger zones.

Types and Configurations of No Touch Tools

Standard Hook Configurations

J-Hook Tools: Feature a single curved end that can hook onto load attachment points, chain links, or other rigging hardware. Ideal for general positioning and pulling applications.
C-Hook Tools: Designed with an open C-shaped end that can wrap around pipes, bars, or cylindrical objects for better control during positioning.
S-Hook Tools: Double-ended tools with hooks on both ends, allowing for versatile positioning and the ability to hook multiple attachment points simultaneously.
Double Hook Tools: Feature two hooks oriented in different directions, providing multiple engagement options for complex positioning tasks.

Specialized Configurations

Staggered Double Hook Tools: Designed with hooks at different heights, allowing for better access in tight spaces or when working with uneven surfaces.
Master Link Handles: Modified master links with permanently attached handles, eliminating pinch points between crane hooks and rigging hardware.
Magnetic No Touch Tools: Advanced tools incorporating strong magnets for handling ferrous materials without the need for hook engagement.

Materials and Construction

Shaft Materials

Steel: Traditional choice offering maximum durability and strength for heavy-duty applications
Aluminum: Lighter weight option that reduces user fatigue while maintaining adequate strength
Composite Materials: Modern alternatives providing corrosion resistance and enhanced ergonomics

Handle Options

Bicycle Handles: Comfortable grip design that reduces hand strain during extended use
Wood Handles: Traditional option providing good grip and shock absorption
Rubber Grips: Non-slip surfaces that maintain control even when wet or oily
Closed Handles: Prevent hand slippage and provide secure grip during critical operations

Safety Benefits and Applications

Primary Safety Benefits

Elimination of Hand Injuries: By keeping hands away from pinch points and crush hazards, no touch tools dramatically reduce the most common type of workplace injury in rigging operations.
Increased Safe Working Distance: Workers can maintain proper clearance from suspended loads while still maintaining precise control over positioning and movement.
Reduced Struck-By Incidents: The extended reach allows workers to stay outside the fall zone or swing radius of loads, preventing injuries from unexpected load movement.
Enhanced Load Control: Despite working from a distance, these tools often provide better control than manual handling, especially with loads that may spin or sway.

Common Applications

Load Positioning: Guiding suspended materials into precise positions during installation or storage operations.
Chain and Sling Management: Safely positioning rigging hardware without exposing hands to pinch points between chain links or hardware components.
Pipe and Tubular Handling: Controlling the rotation and positioning of pipes, conduits, and similar cylindrical materials on racks or during installation.
Equipment Alignment: Fine-tuning the position of machinery or structural components during lifting operations.
Emergency Situations: Providing a safe method to adjust or reposition loads when direct manual intervention would be dangerous.