In high-risk environments like manufacturing and fabrication, safety and efficiency are non-negotiable. One of the most effective ways to reduce workplace injuries, especially hand and back injuries, is by integrating no-touch tools into daily operations. These magnetic tools allow workers to handle, guide, and lift materials without direct contact, minimizing risk while maximizing productivity.
Let’s explore the top no-touch tools available today, how they work, and why they’re transforming industrial safety standards.
Why No-Touch Tools Matter
Before diving into the tools themselves, here’s why no-touch technology is a game-changer:
- Reduces hand injuries: No-touch tools eliminate the need to manually guide or lift sharp, heavy, or hot materials.
- Improves ergonomics: Tools with extendable handles or electric actuation reduce strain on wrists and backs.
- Boosts productivity: Faster handling means quicker turnaround times and fewer delays due to injury or fatigue.
- Enhances precision: Magnetic tools offer controlled grip and release, improving material placement and workflow.
Featured No-Touch Tools
1. Fixed Hand Lifter and Hand Lifter 60-M
These are the workhorses of magnetic hand-lifting tools. Both models offer 106 kg (233 pounds) of breakaway force, but the Fixed Hand Lifter also comes in a 177 kg (170 pounds) version for heavier loads. It provides superior wrist control, making it ideal for repetitive tasks and safer handling.
Best for: Sheet metal, small components, and general material handling.
2. Hand Lifter 60-CE (Cordless Electric)
Designed for high-volume sheet metal operations, this electric lifter is a time-saving marvel. It includes:
- A holster
- A charger
- Two lithium batteries (each good for ~1000 lifts)
Its rapid magnetic activation makes it perfect for thin-gauge metals and fast-paced environments.
Best for: Sheet metal workers, assembly lines, and repetitive lifting tasks.
3. Dual Hand Lifter
This tool allows for a two-person operation for heavier or awkwardly shaped materials. It also enables a single operator to safely handle large but lightweight items.
Best for: Oversized sheets, panels, or materials that exceed solo lifting limits.
4. Mag-Reach 400
Released in 2021, the Mag-Reach 400 is tailored for burn table operations. With a 181 kg (400 pound) breakaway force and an extendable handle, it allows workers to:
- Retrieve cut pieces without bending
- Reach into skeleton/nest areas safely
- Walk on burn tables without strain
This tool directly addresses the two most common workplace injuries: hand and back strain.
Best for: CNC plasma cutting, laser cutting, and burn table cleanup.
Understanding Magnetic Field Depth: Deep vs. Shallow
Choosing the right lifting magnet isn’t just about force, it’s about magnetic field depth. Here’s a breakdown:
| Magnet Type | Field Depth | Ideal Material Thickness | Lifting Capacity (Example) | Key Benefit |
| Deep Field (Passive) | 40-60 mm (1.57 – 2.36 inches) | ≥ 40 mm (1.57 inches) | 500–1000 kg (1100 – 2200 pounds) | Robust for thick materials |
| Shallow Field (Active) | 12.7 mm (0.5 inches) | 0.5–25 mm (0.01 – 1 inch) | 400 kg (881 pounds) | Versatile, safer for thin materials |
Why it matters: Using a deep field magnet on thin material can cause:
- Difficulty in actuation
- Risk of wrist injuries
- Misjudged lifting capacity
Shallow field magnets, on the other hand, offer gentle actuation and consistent performance across a wider range of thicknesses, making them ideal for dynamic work environments.
Match the Magnet to the Material
Always consider:
- Material thickness
- Weight
- Handling frequency
- Operator strength and safety
MSA Magnetics offers both deep and shallow field magnets and can help you choose the right fit for your operation.
Final Thoughts
No-touch tools aren’t just accessories. They are essential safety solutions. Whether you’re lifting, guiding, or cleaning up, these magnetic tools reduce injury risk, improve workflow, and empower your team to work smarter.
Explore the full range of MSA Magnetics No-Touch Tools and take the first step toward a safer, more efficient workplace.