Safety Precautions

If your OPNBar was not purchased from an approved distributor or seller, we are unable to ensure reliability and safety. It is advised to only purchase from an approved distributor or seller as found on our contact us page. For questions about approved sellers, you can contact us.

Always use safety precautions in the workplace. This tool is a manual tool, so caution must still be taken when opening or closing doors.  For aging OPNBars, please always inspect your tool that there are no compromised or broken parts of the tool.  If  you notice such issues, please discontinue use.  Please watch this safety video as part of our instructions prior to using OPNBar.

Disclaimer & Precautions for Using OPNBar as a Cheater Bar

Disclaimer:

The OPNBar is designed to provide additional leverage for opening container latches and other approved applications. Using the OPNBar as a cheater bar for unintended purposes, such as extending the length of a wrench or other tools, may result in injury, equipment damage, or failure. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and proper usage instructions. The user assumes all risks associated with improper use of the product. The manufacturer and distributors of OPNBar are not liable for any damage, injury, or loss caused by misuse.

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Precautions for Safe Use:

1. Use as Intended – OPNBar is engineered for leverage assistance in opening latches and similar applications. Do not use it as a pipe extension for wrenches or tools not designed for such force.
2. Inspect Before Use – Always check for signs of wear, cracks, or damage before using the OPNBar. A compromised tool may fail under pressure.
3. Wear Proper Safety Gear – Use gloves, eye protection, and proper footwear to prevent hand injuries and ensure safe handling.
4. Ensure Secure Positioning – When applying force, ensure the OPNBar is securely attached to the intended surface or tool to prevent slipping or sudden release.
5. Do Not Exceed Safe Force Limits – Excessive force can cause equipment failure, structural damage, or personal injury.

The intention of this tool is mainly to provide leverage and to prevent unconventional methods of opening/closing container doors which often result in strains and sprains. Use quality gloves with grip when using OPNBar.   Use a shipping container strap and wrap around lockrods to prevent items that may have shifted from falling out.  Use caution using OPNBar for opening and closing shipping container door, and use of force is not recommended as this can bend shipping container door handles. 

Large Mouth versions of OPNBar may not include the built-in 5th wheel release hook.  If you are interested in the 5th wheel hook, an extension piece may be available.

As a tire thumper, while tire thumping is a quick way to check for flat tires, you must always check with a tire gauge if you suspect that a tire is low on air.  While some customers also use OPNBar as an alternative tool for various uses, always use caution. 

Using product other than it’s intended function may result in injury and is at your own risk.

Please also refer to our Company Disclaimer.

Life Expectancy of Tool

For aging OPNBars, please always inspect your tool that there are no compromised or broken parts of the tool.  If  you notice such issues, please discontinue use.  If any parts of the tool show cracks, deterioration, or wear and tear, the integrity of the tool could be compromised.  

Leverage Bar

PRECAUTION: Use optional provided lanyard and attach to OPNBar hook ring. Secure lanyard around wrist as an added measure to prevent tool from slipping from hand.  Use recommended quality gloves with grip when using OPNBar.  Use a shipping container strap and wrap around lockrods to prevent items that may have shifted from falling out.  Use caution using OPNBar for opening and closing shipping container door, and use of force is not recommended as this can bend shipping container door handles.

Note: If you encounter issues with the bend of our tool, please contact us for our new bend replacement

OPNBar Overhead Reach Tool – Left/Right Handle Adjustment

Orienting the OPNBar for Left or Right Container Handles

1. Press and hold the center adjustment button located in the middle of the OPNBar Overhead Reach Tool.
   
2. While holding the button, rotate the OPNBar head to the desired orientation for the left or right shipping container door handle.
   
3. Release the button when the OPNBar is properly positioned.
4. Make sure the head locks securely into place before engaging the container handle.
5. Position the OPNBar onto the elevated container handle and operate the tool as intended.
   

IMPORTANT: Always verify that the rotating head is fully locked before applying leverage. Do not use the tool if the head is not securely locked.

Opening

The right hand door is the first door you open, swivel the custom catches up, there’s one on each handle.

You’ll notice that your container is fitted with lock rods which run all the way from the bottom of the doors through to the top. At each end of the lock rod is a cam and a keeper which engage to allow the door to lock.

Slide the OPNBar (hook side) over the door handle completely and grip the extended leverage handle with both hands.  

When using leverage bar, make sure the rectangular mouth of the bar is snug on the container door handle. For best results firmly insert OPNBar and apply forward pressure when operating. OPNBar should be tight and should not wobble. Failure to do so can result in the tool, or the operator to slip resulting in injury. The tool must be operated by using 2 hands with a firm grip at all times to reduce the risk of injury; when using the tool the operator must have both feet planted firmly on the ground while wearing dry work gloves with the safety strap so the tool will not slip out of one’s hand.

Lift up the door handles while gripping OPNBar and twist slightly to make sure the cams and keepers are dis-engaged.

Next take hold of the inner door handle first and pull out slightly followed by the outer handle and then pull them in tandem.

For more information, click here

Closing

Closing the doors is just a reverse process of course, start with the left hand door, engage the cams and keepers and then twist both door handles.  Slide the OPNBar (hook side) over the door handle to provide leverage.

When using leverage bar, make sure the rectangular mouth of the bar is snug on the container door handle. For best result we recommend firmly inserting opnbar and applying forward pressure when operating. Bar should be tight and should not wobble.  Failure to do so can result in the tool, or the operator to slip resulting in injury. It is recommended that the tool be operated by using two hands with a firm grip at all times to reduce the risk of potential injury.

Finally swivel the custom down.

For more information, click here

Cheater Bar

A cheater bar, also known as a “pipe extender”, “breaker bar extension,” or torque bar, is a simple and cost-effective tool used to increase the leverage and torque applied to a wrench or socket handle. It consists of a sturdy, elongated pipe or rod that fits over the handle of your existing tool, effectively extending its length. By doing so, it multiplies the torque you can apply to stubborn nuts, bolts, or fasteners, making seemingly impossible tasks more manageable.

The Anatomy of a Cheater Bar

Cheater bars are minimalistic in design, comprising just two main components:

Extension Pipe or Rod: The primary component of a cheater bar is the extension itself, typically made of metal, most commonly steel. Its length can vary significantly, with options ranging from a foot to several feet, depending on the user’s requirements and the desired level of leverage.

Socket Head or End Cap: One end of the extension features a socket head or end cap that fits over the wrench or socket handle. This socket head securely holds your tool in place, ensuring a solid connection between the cheater bar and the tool it augments.

Applications of Cheater Bars

Cheater bars find applications across various industries and scenarios, including:

Automotive Repairs: When it comes to loosening lug nuts or suspension components torqued to high specifications, cheater bars can be a mechanic’s best friend, saving time and effort.

Plumbing: In plumbing, especially for larger pipe fittings or stubborn valves, cheater bars can make turning wrenches or pipe wrenches more manageable.

Construction: Builders and contractors often use cheater bars to deal with tight and resistant bolts and nuts in structural elements and machinery.

Heavy Equipment Maintenance: In industrial settings, cheater bars come in handy for maintaining heavy machinery, where enormous torque is required.

Tire Thumper

While tire thumping is a quick way to check for flat tires, you must always check with a tire gauge if you suspect that a tire is low on air.  The apparatus must be used as a tool to detect changes in sound when thumping tires to quickly point out if there is an issue with a tire.  Use quality gloves with grip when using OPNBar.

A quick and easy way to check tire pressure is by thumping your tires. Some trucks have many tires and tire thumping is the fastest method for checking tire pressure before hitting the road.

Since duel tires ride side by side, one tire can be flat and still on the wheel or rim and will not appear flat since the tire right next to it will hold it off the ground.

Tire Thumper assists the truck driver and operator in a quick method of evaluating properly inflated tires.

If there is air in the tire, the tire thumper will bounce easily and make a loud, sharp thud; and if the tire is flat (no air) it will not bounce much and will give a sound like a dull thud when it is smacked.

For more information, click here

Container Seal Breaker

OPNBar also acts as a Shipping Container Seal Breaker, for plastic and metal, which can eliminate the need for wire cutters when on the go.

This product should be stowed in a secure area, away from children and should not be exposed to excess heat or frigidity which may affect the durability of the product.

Additional Precautions

• When using the tool the operator must have both feet firmly planted on a level surface at all times.
• We recommend that before the tool is used, the operator wears clean, dry, “work gloves” free of any dirt or grease or any other substance to avoid slippage from the operator's hands.
• When not is use, product must be stowed away in a secure area
• Avoid exposing the tool to heat or frigid conditions for long periods of time as this may affect the durability of the product when in use
• Ensure tools properly seated before use to avoid injury
• Safety strap can be used reduce the likelihood of tool slipping out of hand
• Use quality gloves with grip when using OPNBar.

More Precautions

Taking precautions when opening and closing shipping container doors is crucial to ensure both personal safety and the integrity of the cargo. Here's a unique and unplagiarized version of the precautions to follow:

• Assess Surroundings: Begin by surveying the area around the container. Look for any potential hazards, uneven ground, or obstacles that might hinder the smooth operation of the doors or pose a safety risk.
• Protective Gear: Prioritize safety by donning appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as sturdy gloves and durable footwear. These safeguards shield your hands and feet from potential sharp edges or unexpected movements.
• Inspect Locks and Seals: Before attempting to open the container doors, double-check that all locks, seals, and security measures are fully disengaged. Failing to do so might lead to unnecessary strain on the doors or compromise your safety.
• Use Correct Tools: If the doors are secured with locks, make use of the correct tools for their removal. Avoid resorting to makeshift tools or excessive force, as this could result in accidents or damage.
• Firm Footing: Maintain a stable footing while operating the doors. Refrain from climbing on the container or using unstable objects to gain height, as this can lead to dangerous falls.
• Mindful Effort: If the doors prove resistant to opening, refrain from exerting excessive force. Straining muscles or causing sudden door movements can result in injury. If necessary, seek assistance.
• Handle with Care: When operating the doors, ensure you have a secure grip on the handles or edges. Abrupt door movement due to a loose grip can lead to unforeseen accidents.
• Watch for Falling Objects: As the doors are opened, be vigilant for any items that may have shifted during transit and could tumble out when the doors are ajar.
• Controlled Action: Both opening and closing the doors should be executed smoothly and steadily. Prevent rapid swinging or forceful closure, as these actions can lead to accidents or damage.
• Avoid Pinching: Be particularly cautious of pinch points where the doors meet the container frame. Steer clear of these areas to prevent potential injuries.
• Clear the Path: Before closing the doors, ensure that no objects or body parts are obstructing the path. Hasty door closure with obstructions in the way can result in harm.
• Secure Closure: After opening or closing the doors, verify that they are properly secured and latched. Loose doors can unexpectedly swing shut, posing a risk to those in proximity.
• Open Communication: When collaborating with a team, maintain clear communication regarding your actions and intentions while manipulating the container doors.
• Regular Maintenance: Ensure that the hinges, locks, and other components of the container are routinely inspected and adequately lubricated. This practice prevents operational glitches.
• Seek Expertise: If you're unfamiliar with container door operations, seek guidance or training from experienced professionals before attempting to manipulate them.

By adhering to these precautions, you ensure a safe and controlled process when dealing with shipping container doors. This approach minimizes potential accidents and upholds the wellbeing of all involved, as well as the condition of the cargo and equipment.