Vibration

Vibration passed to the body from hand-held power tools, or through the seat and feet from mobile plant and vehicles. Regular exposure to hand-arm vibration can cause lasting damage to the blood vessels, nerves and joints of the hands and arms, and whole-body vibration can cause back pain and injury.

Also known as: Hand-arm vibration, Whole-body vibration, Vibrating tools

How to control vibration

Remove the vibrating task where possible, for example by mechanising it or using a different method.
Choose tools and plant designed for low vibration, and maintain them so vibration stays low.
Fit anti-vibration mounts, handles and suspension seats, and keep tools sharp and balanced.
Limit each worker's time on vibrating tools and plant by rotating tasks and scheduling breaks.
Train workers to recognise and report early symptoms such as tingling, numbness, whitening fingers and back pain.
Keep hands warm and dry, and arrange health monitoring for workers regularly exposed to vibration.

Typical controls, most effective first. Your SWMS sets the controls for your own job and site.