Reachers are used by people to grasp or reach for items beyond physical reach. They are commonly used by people with back and hip problems that are unable to bend to the floor.
Reaching aids normally consist of a long shaft with a grasping claw at one end and a squeeze handle operated using one hand. Reaching aids can come in different lengths depending on the reach length required and height of the user.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
For people with disability, the use of a reacher in the workplace may avoid the need to bend uneccesariy to reach items and therefore reduce the risk of injury. However, it is recommeded that items that are used regularly as part of a person’s job role be placed within easy reach to avoid overstretching.
References
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Reaching aids, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 9 June 2011, http://www.ilcaustralia.org.au/home/search3.asp?State=NSW&MC=32&MinC=17.
WorkCover New South Wales 2010, Manual Handling-Hierarchy of Controls, New South Wales Government, Sydney, viewed 9 June 2011, http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/formspublications/publications/Documents/hierarchy_of_controls_5620.pdf.