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Innovative Hose Handle is Reported to Help Prevent Injuries

The unique pipe grip from Handle-Tech Ltd. helps reduce the number of industrial accidents by allowing workers to move hose or pipe safely and efficiently.
Photo courtesy of Handle-Tech/RTP Company/Gemma Plastic Products.
WINONA, Minn.—Dale Gregg’s unique pipe grip became a means to avoid injuries caused in the process of moving large hoses and pipes in industries like oil and frac sand mining. Gregg, owner of Handle-Tech Ltd., used innovative compounds from RTP Company and plastic moldings from Gemma Plastic Products to create an independent, removable handle that could lock onto a hose or pipe, allowing workers to move hoses while standing in a natural, upright position, such as when holding a suitcase.

Gregg got the idea for the product when a friend explained how his son had crushed his hand while moving sections of heavy hose in the oil fields of Canada. “You hear about a lot of hand injuries, back injuries, falls, hoses decoupling and hitting people, and other accidents,” Gregg said. He used a 3D printer to create a device that could help avoid these injuries, and after seven prototypes, Gregg brought the device to an international oil and gas show. “There was enormous interest,” he said. “No one had ever seen anything like it before.”

Fueled by the interest of the industry, Gregg shifted his attention to manufacturing. Gregg met with Tom Vermeeren from Gemma Plastic Products. Tom advised Gregg to use long glass fiber-reinforced nylon from RTP Company, saying he wouldn’t regret it.

“He was right,” Gregg said, referring to Tom’s advice. “I still can’t believe how well this material fits my vision. It’s extremely strong, has great electrical insulation characteristics, and is practically impervious to heat and cold.” Using long glass fiber-reinforced nylon from RTP Company, Gregg partnered with Gemma Plastic Products to mold the plastic. Handle-Tech Ltd. is now receiving a flood of orders for Gregg’s product. “As one customer told me,” Gregg said, “the handles make it so much easier and so much safer, he never wants to see his people move any hoses or pipes by hand ever again.”

More information on RTP’s structural products is available at rtpcompany.com.