Hand-arm vibration at work
Over 4 million people are exposed to hand-arm vibration in the workplace each year. These cases mainly occur within the manufacturing and construction industry. Around two million construction workers could be exposed to levels of vibration where there are clear risks of developing disease.
Hand-arm vibration comes from the use of hand-held power tools and is the cause of significant ill health (painful and disabling disorders of the blood vessels, nerves, joints and muscles of the hands and arms).
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a widespread recognised industrial disease from the use of hand-held power tools and is the cause of significant ill health; it is a disorder which affects the blood vessels, nerves, muscles, and joints, of the hand wrist and arm. Its best known effect is 'vibration-induced white finger’ (VWF).
Am I at risk?
You could be at risk if you are regularly involved with using power tools such as:
• Concrete breakers, concrete pokers;
• Sanders, grinders, disc cutters;
• Hammer drills;
• Chipping hammers;
• Chainsaws, brush cutters, hedge trimmers;
• Powered mowers;
• Scabblers or needle guns.
What can I do to help prevent hand-arm vibration?
• Conduct a risk assessment so you know exactly how many employees are exposed to this risk. Include details of what type of equipment is used and how much time each employee is likely to spend using that equipment.
• Look for alternative methods that eliminate or reduce your employees' exposure to vibration. Your trade association, equipment suppliers, trade journals, and other industry contacts can help you to identify good industry practice.
• Use efficient equipment. By making sure that your allocated equipment is suitable, you can help to reduce the amount of time employees are exposed to vibrations. Make sure that your equipment is not too small and that it is powerful enough.
• Improve workstation design to minimise pressure on employees’ hands, wrists and arms caused by poor posture.
• Provide your employees with protective clothing when necessary to keep them warm and dry. This will encourage good blood circulation and will help protect them from developing vibration white finger.
