Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome

Many millions of workers are exposed to hand-arm vibration in the workplace, many of them are exposed to levels of vibration where there are clear risks of developing the condition Hand-arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) sometimes called Vibration White Finger. Types of equipment that can give rise to the problem include:

• Concrete breakers, concrete pokers;
• Sanders, grinders, disc cutters;
• Hammer drills;
• Chipping hammers;
• Chainsaws, brush cutters, hedge trimmers;
• Powered mowers;
• Scrabbles or needle guns;

Problems can also develop where a work piece vibrates – such as operating a pedestal grinder.

Early symptoms of HAVS include:

• Tingling and numbness in the fingers
• Loss of sense of touch
• Loss of strength in the hand
• Fingers going white

People who complain of these symptoms should be advised to see their doctor immediately.
Like hearing damage, the condition is not reversible but if it is detected early the problem can be managed. 

Effects of the symptoms:

• Pain and distress
• Difficulty sleeping
• Inability to manipulate small objects – e.g. may experience difficulties fastening buttons.
• Unable to go out in cold weather – cold triggers painful attacks.
• Restricts employment prospects
• Prevents people pursuing hobbies and interests

Preventing hand-arm vibration syndrome
Where people have to operate vibrating tools the following steps can be taken to reduce the risk of harm:

• Hold the tools as loosely as possible – a tight grip increases the intensity of the vibration
• Ensure tools are well maintained and operate efficiently
• Use the correct tool the correct way
• Take regular breaks
• Keep warm and dry – especially the hands to maintain good flow of blood
• Smokers are at a higher risk due to their restricted blood  flow
• Don’t use ‘ant-vibration’ glove; research has shown them to be ineffective