The Swedish Rheumatism Association has launched a product label for packaging and products certified as ‘easy to use’, giving consumers the opportunity to choose packaging tested and approved by people with impaired hand function.
The Association’s ‘easy to use’ certification is based on handling tests of packaging and products carried out by people with impaired hand function, with the method scientifically reviewed and published. 20 people with diagnosed impaired hand function carried out each handling step of the packaging or product in question.
The participants assessed the difficulty level of carrying out each step on a 6-point scale from ‘impossible’ through to ‘very easy’. They also assessed their hand functions and their ability to use the most common grips. The Association says the results from the hand assessments were compared against a reference group of over 100 people with impaired hand function to obtain a statistically reliable result.
According to the Association, at least 1.5 million people in Sweden have been diagnosed with impaired hand function. Causes include rheumatic diseases such as arthritis or osteoarthritis, conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis and diabetes and spinal cord injuries.
“We want to give all those who struggle with difficult-to-open packaging the opportunity to use their consumer power. Companies that have had their products certified and companies that sell products in ‘easy to use’ certified packaging will be offered the opportunity to label their products for a license fee. The label can also be used in the marketing of certified products,” states Stina Nordström, secretary general of the Swedish Rheumatism Association.
In related news, last year Eviosys has unveiled the latest addition to its Orbit closure range, the 66mm diameter closure for jars, designed to be opened without force. Eviosys stated that there is a growing need for inclusive packaging in the global food market, with the company’s latest research finding that 82% of consumers often struggle to open metal lids on traditional glass jars.
Tilt Beauty offers refillable mascara and lip treatment products in patented ergonomic packaging, intended as an accessible solution for consumers with mobility issues, visual impairments and other disabilities. Reportedly, the company is the first beauty brand to receive Ease of Use certification from the Arthritis Foundation.
If you liked this story, you might also enjoy:
The ultimate guide to the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation in 2024
How are the top brands progressing on packaging sustainability?
Sustainable Innovation Report 2024: Current trends and future priorities
Everything you need to know about global plastic sustainability regulation
No comments yet