The Easy to use certification helps consumers and workplaces identify products that are easier to use for people with reduced hand function. An estimated 1.5 million people in Sweden live with impaired hand function. For many of them, everyday tasks such as twisting, pressing, gripping or opening products can be difficult or painful. Reduced hand function can be associated with rheumatic conditions, osteoarthritis, neurological disorders and stroke, but may also occur naturally as part of the ageing process.

This is why the Swedish Rheumatism Association developed the Easy to use certification, which supports companies in designing products that are easier for more people to use. The certification is based on user testing, in which individuals with documented reduced hand function evaluate products in real-life usage situations.

“We are impressed by the Tork brand’s long-term commitment to developing hygiene products that are easy to use for people with different needs and abilities. It is particularly encouraging to see usability embedded in product development, and that more dispensers now meet the requirements for Easy to use certification,” says Stina Nordström, Secretary General of the Swedish Rheumatism Association.

The Easy to use certification is an independent quality mark demonstrating that a product has been tested by people with first-hand experience of reduced hand function and assessed as easy to use. The following Tork products have now received Easy to Use certification:

Tork Wall-Mounted Wiping Paper Dispenser Washstation Article No. 651220, 651420

Tork Bin 20 Litre Article No. 565001, 565008

Tork Mini Jumbo 2-Roll Toilet Paper Dispenser Article No. 555500, 555508

“Ease of use is a central part of our product development process. We want as many people as possible to be able to use our products simply and comfortably. This certification provides us with valuable user feedback and confirms that our products meet high standards of usability,” says Rebecca Wendel, Brand Activation Manager North, Professional Hygiene at Essity.

These new certifications complement the large number of Tork products that have already been approved under the Swedish Rheumatism Association’s Easy to use certification programme. Together, they contribute to more accessible washroom and hygiene facilities, enabling more people to use the products independently and with greater ease.

About Easy to use

Easy to use is the Swedish Rheumatism Association’s independent certification for products and packaging that have been tested by people with reduced hand function. The certification is based on scientifically validated user testing and aims to encourage the development of products that are easier for more people to use. Products that meet the requirements may also carry the Swedish Rheumatism Association’s Easy to use symbol, should the manufacturer choose to do so.

For more information, please contact Kristina Heilborn at [email protected]