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HAND/ARM VIBRATION


HAVS AND HAV NOTS


It ’s not just the specified HAV readings you need to consider, but what work you are doing with the machine or tool, says The Preparation Group.


Hand Arm Vibration syndrome is a disorder that affects the blood vessels, nerves, muscles and joints of the hand, wrist and arm. The best-known form of it is white finger, which can be triggered by wet or cold weather and can cause severe pain in the affected fingers. Operators are at risk if they regularly use hand- held powered tools such as concrete breakers, angle grinders and scabblers.


In considering the risks of hand arm vibration when using machines or tools, there are three key questions you should know the answer to. Is the equipment suitable for the job? How long can I use it for? Is the accessory fitted correctly and appropriate?


The equipment’s technical manual is there for guidance but when manufacturers specify a HAV (Hand Arm Vibration) reading, it is important to note that this has usually been tested in ‘ideal conditions’. What is often not taken into account, is whether the machine or tool is being used in the correct environment and is suitable for the task. If not acknowledged, a seemingly harmless grinder with a low exposure value deemed suitable for continued usage could become a real vibration hazard and a danger to the operator. It is standard practice to conduct tests in real situations and monitor use for the duration of the project. It may be that alternative methods, equipment, tools or accessories need to be sought.


There are many features that can be incorporated into machine and tooling designs to reduce or eliminate the risk of HAVs. The Preparation Group’s range of surface preparation equipment and tools have been designed to incorporate anti-vibration features, to increase the time the operator can use them and to minimise the hazard.


These include enhanced weight of the machine body, the use of anti-vibration rubber handles and shock absorbers and elongated designs so that the operator is further away from the operating head. The equipment is tested and measured in the controlled environment of The Preparation Group’s training school which emulates onsite conditions.


Examples are the company’s 180 Grinder and MSS150 Multi Surface Stripper, designed so that the impact of vibration is ‘absorbed’ in the body of the unit and the user is not in direct contact with the accessories performing the task.


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What this means in terms of HAVs is that if you take the MSS150’s closest comparison, a standard Mechanical Breaker, it measures 8.5m/s2 r.m.s (the calculation for vibration magnitude) which is high risk and therefore it can only be used for up to 45 minutes in 15 minute bursts. The MSS150 measures 4.00m/s2 r.m.s and can therefore be used continuously for up to three hours.


Another critical consideration is PPE such as anti- vibration gloves, these can further reduce the effects of impact and vibration whilst allowing the dexterity needed when using power tools.


If there is any doubt, a reputable tool manufacturer or supplier will offer advice on the correct selection of equipment, tools and accessories, along with technical documentation. The Preparation Group is SafeHire certified as an extra layer of assurance.


www.ppcgroup.co.uk www.tomorrowshs.com


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