By Kevin Perdeaux, CPE The ‘ergonomic’ bent-handle shovel is not
new to the market, and is a far more popular choice than the
traditional straight-handle shovel. However, despite its
popularity, why doesn’t the ergonomic shovel render the
traditional straight-handle shovel obsolete? The two shovels are
designed to provide mechanical advantages in different
situations. The bent-handle shovel is designed using the
principles of biomechanical stress to the low back for pushing
tasks. When push force is applied as the hands move vertically
from the hips, either above or below hip level, the off-axis
forces create increased strain to the low back. The user applies
push forces through the midsection of the trunk to avoid
unnecessary low back strain. However, this mechanical advantage
is optimal only for pushing the snow, not lifting. If you have
ever used the bent-handle shovel, you may have noticed that the
angle of the shaft positions the load such that it is difficult
to raise the shovel blade end. When you atte