AGL 2024 - ToolBox Talks - Vibration

Vibration
Overview This talk will cover: the sources, effects and methods of overcoming excessive vibration.
Effects of vibration
1 Depending upon work situation, vibration can be whole-body vibration or more commonly, hand-arm vibration.
2 The first signs of a problem may only be tingling in the affected fingers.
3 Exposure to vibration can lead to irritation, fatigue and loss of concentration.
4 The above effects are likely to affect a person’s attention to safety and therefore increase the likelihood of an accident occurring.
5 In the longer term, damage may occur to blood vessels, nerves, muscles, tendons and body organs.
6 Excessive hand-arm vibration can lead to ‘Vibration White Finger’ resulting in damaged blood vessels, circulatory problems, pain and possibly gangrene.
The sources of vibration
1 A common cause of hand-arm vibration is the prolonged use of rotating hand tools used for cutting and grinding.
2 Percussive hand tools use for riveting, chipping, hammering, drilling etc. are also sources of vibration.
3 The use of chainsaws is also another source of hand-arm vibration.
Avoidance of vibration
1 Advances in technology are leading to newer tools being equipped or manufactured with vibration-absorbing features.
2 If available, select tools with vibration-absorbing features for your work.
3 When using a tool which causes vibration, break the job up with other work activities.
4 If you think you are suffering ill effects from vibration, stop the activity, speak to your supervisor and if necessary seek medical advice.

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