There are many things that facility managers look for when selecting a power tool for a job, but functionality, safety and adaptability will always come first. However, new and emerging trends like technology and sustainability are starting to be heavily considered when purchasing new tools.
“End users who work in facility maintenance or other trades that require power tools have a tool in hand for many hours a day,” says Chris Harris, senior product manager, Metabo HPT. “We strive to make tools smaller and lighter as well as keeping ergonomics in mind. If a tool is smaller and lighter, it is less fatiguing when used for long periods of time.”
As maintenance jobs begin to shift and become more frequent, managers are starting to seek out tools that are smaller, lighter and more compact. These tools can be used in tighter workspaces and can decrease user fatigue, allowing for more work to be accomplished. Manufacturers are constantly doing research on how to best improve the tools so that injuries can best be prevented.
“We are always working to put end user safety first,” says Harris. “We are very involved in safety standard organizations and working with these organizations to make sure we meet or exceed all standards.”
Meanwhile, cordless technology is also innovating, catching the attention of many end users as they are no longer tethered to just one spot.
“With everyone looking for ways to go cordless rather it be automobiles, vacuum cleaners, or power tools, everyone is trying to crack the code to better battery technology,” says Harris. “We also are doing constant research to improve battery technology as well as the user experience.”
Emerging technologies are also gaining more traction within power tools. Engineers have worked tirelessly to keep up with changes in customer needs and new technology. However, one piece of technology that Harris predicts isn’t going away anytime soon is Bluetooth. The emergence of Bluetooth technology has been able to solve multiple pain-points with end users, such as tool location, maintenance notifications and overall connectivity.
“We say that the end user is the boss. Our goal is to solve pain-point that keep the end user from completing the job safely, comfortably and on time,” says Harris. “We want everyone to go home at the end of the day to their families feeling accomplished and healthy and end user feedback helps us achieve that.”
Mackenna Moralez is the associate editor of the facilities market.
