San Diego based machine shop, 5th Axis, has announced details for its StepHandle product, designed so people can open doors with their feet instead of their hands. As businesses around the world begin to reopen in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, the StepHandle is a necessity for small and large businesses to provide a hands-free option for its workers and customers. Using the included hardware and a drill, StepHandle installs in less than 90 seconds on almost any type of latch-less door.
After prototyping and testing several variations, 5th Axis has developed a sanitary way to open a door hands-free.
StepHandle’s gripper teeth and raised lip provide traction without sticking in one’s shoe tread, and it is angled enough to grab with your shoe, but not high enough to be a tripping hazard. Currently offered in red or natural silver finish, the bright color is ideal for businesses with dim lighting, while the silver finish remains neutral (more colors are coming soon). StepHandle is made in the U.S. and the owners (who have invested over $250,000 in automated equipment to support demand) have vowed to keep production in the U.S. The raw material is aircraft grade aluminum, which is also sourced in the U.S.