Graham Roofing Hand Arm Vibration TBT

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Hand Arm Vibration

• TOOL BOX TALK
  Hand Arm Vibration
  
  Introduction
  Hand Arm Vibration is the name given to vibration that can affect the hands and lower arms whilst operating vibrating equipment. Too much exposure to vibration can result in serious and disabling injury. Many workers do not appreciate the possible dangers from vibration.
  
  What are the effects of vibration?
  • The first signs of a HAV problem may be tingling in the affected fingers.
  • Exposure to vibration can lead to irritation, fatigue and loss of concentration. These symptoms are likely to affect a person’s attention to safety.
  • In the longer term, HAV damage may occur to blood vessels, nerves, muscles, tendons and body organs. It can result in not being able to feel things with your fingers, loss of hand strength and in the cold and wet the tips of your fingers going white then red and being painful on recovery.
  • Excessive exposure to HAV can lead to vibration white finger, resulting in damaged blood vessels, circulatory problems, pain and possibly gangrene.
  • The condition may become permanent if early symptoms are not identified and action taken. If you think you are suffering from the effects of vibration, then stop the activity immediately and speak to your line manager, Health & Safety Manager or occupational nurse.
  
  Sources of vibration
  • A common cause of HAV is the prolonged use of rotating hand tools used for cutting and grinding.
  • Percussive hand tools used for riveting, hammering and drilling are also sources of HAV.
  • The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimate that up to 2 million people are exposed to levels of HAV which put them at risk of developing HAVS.
  
  How to avoid vibration?
  • Always use the right tool for each job. Advances in technology are leading to newer tools being equipped or manufactured with vibration absorbing features.
  • Check tools before use to make sure they are properly maintained and repaired to avoid increased vibration caused by faults or general wear.
  • Reduce the amount of time you use a tool in one go, by doing other jobs in between or rotate the task amongst several employees.
  • Encourage good blood circulation by: keeping warm and dry, give up or cut down on smoking and massage or exercise your finders during work breaks.
  • Adopt a comfortable stance when using vibrating tools: tense muscles increase ill effects. Grip the handle as lightly as possible whilst ensuring sufficient grip is maintained for safety.
  • Do not use blunt tools – keep tools sharp and use the right tool for the job.
  • Be aware of how long you can safely use hand held vibrating equipment: refer to risk assessments and the company HAVS Safety Guide.
  
  PREVENTING EXPOSURE IS RELATIVELY EASY – CURING HAND ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME IS NOT!
  
  
  Questions/ notes
  1. During your work when might you be exposed to vibration?
  2. How can excessive vibration be avoided?
  3. What should you do if you notice your fingers tingling after you have finished using a power tool?
  
  Please make notes of responses on question section below

• 1. During your work when might you be exposed to vibration?

• 2. How can excessive vibration be avoided?

• 3. What should you do if you notice your fingers tingling after you have finished using a power tool?

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