The renowned Institute for Health and Ergonomics (IGR) in Nuremberg specialises in all aspects of product and behavioural ergonomics. Both disciplines play a role at MARTOR: How are our safety knives and accessories designed? And how intuitively, accurately and efficiently do users handle them in the workplace?
Five companies over six weeks
Reason enough to conduct a comprehensive practical test with the IGR, in which two MARTOR safety knives were checked according to standardised ergonomic criteria. Over a period of up to six weeks, 44 test subjects in five well-known companies tested the products intensively in everyday working life.
Our safety knives in the test:
- SECUPRO 625: Aluminium safety knives with soft grip and fully automatic blade retraction, plus matching belt holster
- SECUMAX 350: Safety knives made of high-quality plastic, including soft grip with concealed blade, plus matching belt holster
Participating companies included:
- ASTA GmbH & Co. KG – Wholesaler for occupational safety products
- Rodenstock GmbH – Innovation leader in the field of eye health
- Scheugenpflug GmbH – Specialist in adhesive, dispensing and potting technology
- Suspa GmbH – Manufacturer of gas springs, dampers and safety systems
- Tenneco GmbH – Manufacturer of shock absorbers and exhaust control systems
The aim of this test was to evaluate the actual use of safety knives in real-life situations – particularly with regard to handling, ergonomics, occupational safety and the impact on existing working habits. The latter was a particularly interesting question, as the test subjects were not long-term users of the product, but had previously mainly used other work knives, cutters, etc. for cutting tasks.
Considering possible reservations and the challenge of having to adapt, the feedback from participants was extremely positive.
Protection and trust in everyday working life
A particularly strong signal: 85% of respondents said that using the MARTOR safety knives made them feel safe and well protected. This high level of trust shows that MARTOR not only impresses on a technical level, but also conveys a sense of safety – especially in environments with high demands on precision and speed.
Impressive technology and ergonomics
75% of test subjects expressed very positive opinions about the integrated safety technology of the knives. The automatic blade retraction mechanisms, concealed blades, and ergonomic handle shapes contributed to significantly minimising the risk of injury.
Almost 75% of participants also emphasised that the safety knives fit particularly well in the hand. Ergonomics play a key role in frequent use, as they not only increase efficiency but also reduce strain on muscles and joints. MARTOR scored highly here with its well-thought-out design.
Immediately noticeable reduction in workload
Another key finding: around half of the test subjects reported that they found the cutting edge with the new MARTOR knife easier straight away – and no one said that it had become more difficult. This speaks for the product's comfortable handling and self-explanatory design, which makes it easy to switch over and get used to.
Secure storage
An often underestimated aspect of occupational safety is the proper storage of tools. More than 50% of test subjects switched from carrying tools in their trouser pockets to using specially designed belt holsters during the test period – a significantly safer and more professional solution. This change in behaviour shows that the introduction of high-quality safety knives and appropriate accessories can also increase overall safety awareness.
Greater security through knowledge
In addition to the product test, all participants received instruction on the topic of "safe cutting". Over 80% of respondents rated this training as helpful and easy to understand. It not only taught the correct use of the tool, but also basic principles for avoiding cuts – a valuable contribution to a sustainable safety culture in companies.
Setting standards in occupational safety
Conclusion: The results of the practical test speak for themselves. MARTOR safety knives make a demonstrable contribution to improving occupational safety, increasing ergonomics and promoting safety-conscious behaviour. Both in the short term and in the long term. They meet the highest standards of quality, functionality and user-friendliness, thus offering a reliable solution for modern workplaces in industry, logistics, trade and production.
Furthermore, the high level of acceptance among companies shows that investing in high-quality security products not only minimises risks. It is also a form of appreciation for the company's own users and thus increases employee satisfaction and their sense of security.
MARTOR would like to express its sincere thanks to all participating companies and the dedicated testers. The feedback we received is a valuable part of our continuous improvement process – and at the same time an incentive to continually fulfil our promise in terms of ergonomics, quality and occupational safety.
