Vibration - What are the OHS risks?
There are two main types of vibration exposure:
- whole body vibration - the body is shaken by a machine or vehicle
- hand-arm vibration - where the vibration effect is localised to the hand and arm.
Whole body vibration
Whole body vibration may result in:
- damage to bones and joints, especially in the lower spinal region
- variations in blood pressure
- visual impairment
- problems with the balancing system in the ear leading to symptoms like motion sickness and nausea.
Whole body vibration is a hazard for workers who drive or operate heavy vehicles. The effects of vibration on the lower back and spine have been extensively researched and documented. Effects on the gastrointestinal system have received less attention but may be significant.
Hand-arm vibration
Hand-arm vibration may result in:
- nerve and blood vessel degeneration leading to vibration white finger syndrome
- pain and cold sensation between attacks of vibration white finger
- loss of grip strength
- damage to joints and muscles in wrists and/or elbows
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- bone cysts in fingers and wrists
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome
Exposure to hand-arm vibration can result in a range of health effects collectively known as Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome, or HAVS.
The effects include damage to nerves, muscles and joints.
Employees most at risk are those who use hand held power tools such as:
- concrete breakers
- chipping hammers
- vibrating pokers
- sanders, angle grinders
- vibratory compactors
- hammer drills, jigsaws
- scabblers
