Vibration is around us all the time at very low undetectable levels and at high, unavoidable levels. The key to managing the risks of vibration to your health is to manage your environment.
Pilbara Iron have recently initiated an innovative vibration register, aiming to capture data from around the business to decrease the incidence of vibration and potential health and safety risks to employees working with vibrating machinery such as hand tools, light vehicles and drills.
"One of the most common incidences of vibration at work is when you are using hand tools. Following correct operating procedures is the best way to reduce the risk of injury," said Pilbara Iron health advisor Ross Daglish.
A common condition from vibration is Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) which results from prolonged exposure to vibration, specifically to the hands and forearms while using hand tools. HAVS is a painful and potentially disabling condition of the fingers, hands, and arms. Factors such as cold weather, loud noise and smoking increase the risk of developing HAVS and symptoms include numbness, tingling, loss of grip strength and loss of sensation in the fingers.
You can reduce your risk of HAVS by using a tool that has anti-vibration features built in. It is also important to keep your tools well maintained at all times. Keep your hands warm to maintain blood flow and wear work gloves and warm clothing in cooler months to avoid getting your hands wet.
Whole body vibration is also a health and safety risk at work and can be minimised through both manual handling and ergonomic assessment. Keep an eye on Pilbara Health for more information.
Download this month's health calendar for some great tips and contact your site health and safety advisor for more information.
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