Bad Vibrations Lead to Permanent Damage
Posted by proforma on May 21, 2009 | No Comments
Anyone using a pneumatic, hydraulic, electric or gasoline-powered hand tool may have experienced tingling in the fingers, hands and arms after the job is completed. What many people don’t know is that there is a longterm syndrome that may develop — one that is irreversible. Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is the name of the condition. Tingling and numbness in fingers are the first signs; “white” or blanched fingertips, especially with exposure to cold temperatures, are sometimes mistaken for frostbite. As time goes on, painful attacks increase in frequency, duration and intensity, until they’re occurring not only on the job working with the equipment, but also off the job.
Key to prevention is understanding the dynamics of vibration, tool characteristics and worker conditions that contribute to the problem. While there currently are no OSHA guidelines, prudent employers will make sure they’re on top of this issue. Explanation of vibrations and recommendations for testing equipment are available in this excellent article on EHS Today.
Tags:hand, HAVS, power tools, safety, vibration, Workplace Safety
Filed Under: Workplace Safety
