Hand-transmitted vibration in power tools: Accomplishment of standards and users' perception

Abstract

This work presents the results of the measurements of hand-arm vibration carried out in a field survey. This survey attempted to detect the main usability problems of handheld power tools in industry. Hand-arm vibration was measured in 70 tools used in different industrial sectors. Ninety workers were interviewed about their perception of vibration and the symptoms of diseases related with hand vibration. Compliance with current regulations was checked and the relationships between workers' perception of vibration, measured vibration levels and symptoms of vibration-related disorders were analysed. About 15% of the tools exceeded the action limits according to applicable standards. No preventive action was taken in any of these cases. Furthermore, in most of the cases, workers did not perceive these levels as being too high, which represents an additional risk. Relevance to industry: The hand-arm vibration generated by the use of power tools affects over 15% of all workers in industry. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.