Hand Arm Vibration: Management

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How can we manage vibration in the workplace?

Hazard Identification

Worker

Symptoms reported to supervisor
Hazard(s) identified in the workplace
- Consider tools, environment, exposures and existing control measures. (i.e. using a checklist)

JHSC, H&S Rep., H&S Professional Ergonomist

Equipment operation
- i.e. report equipment that isn’t working, ensure it’s maintained
Hazard(s) identified in the workplace
- Consider tools, environment, exposures and existing control measures. (i.e. using a checklist)

Engineer, Manager, Supervisor, Employer

Equipment design review
- i.e. procurement, change management
Hazard(s) identified in the workplace
- Consider tools, environment, exposures and existing control measures. (i.e. using a checklist)

After hazards have been identified, this leads to a medical assessment (i.e. Stockholm sensorineural screening tool), and/or a risk assessment.

Risk assessment

Trained professional (Health and Safety Professional, Ergonomist, Industrial Hygenist) conducts assessment

On-site vibration measurement with tool in regular operatingconditions. Accelerometers to be attached to the tool. Operatorworks for approximately 2 hours. Post exposure analysis todetermine vibration levels and comparison to the appropriatestandard (listed below)

Standards

ISO Standards – Measurement & Evaluation
- 5349-1:2001–Tools with 2m/s2 levels, when used for 8 hours per day, lead to increased risk of HAVS
ACGIH Guidelines: Hand-arm vibration Threshold Limit Values (TLV) for a frequency-weighted, root-mean square daily (8 hours) exposure
- Daily exposure limit value (ELV): 5m/s²
- Daily exposure action value (EAV) of 2.5m/s²
Other Standards/Guidelines
- ANSI S2.70-2006
- EU Directive 2002/44/EC

Once the assessment is complete, the results will be compared to the above guidelines. The results may indicate:

GREEN: No action required
YELLOW: Consider further controls (i.e. Exposure > ACGIH EAV)
ORANGE: Further controls necessary (i.e. Exposure > ACGIH ELV)

Possible Controls

Elimination

Remote operated mobile equipment
Automated process

Substitution

Equipment with lower vibration exposures
- Equipment purchasing policies with selection specifications of desired exposure levels required

Engineering Controls

Provide auxiliary equipment which reduces risk of injury caused by holding vibrating equipment
Ergonomic work equipment and workstation

Administrative Controls

Equipment maintenance program
Awareness and training
Limit duration and magnitude of exposure
- Break scheduling
- Job rotation
Health and medical monitoring
Protect employees from cold and damp conditions

Note: When vibrating tools are used in the workplace, it is recommended to develop procurement procedures to purchase tools with lower vibration exposure emissions, and develop and implement regular tool maintenance schedules.