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TOOLBOX TALK

Hand Arm Vibration


Syndrome
What is HAVS?

A disorder which affects the blood vessels,


nerves and muscles of the hand, wrist and
forearm.
Can be severely disabling.
Is better known as Vibration White Finger.
Why talk about HAVS?

1 Million workers are exposed to high


levels of vibration, of those 460,000 are
estimated to be working in construction.
242,000 cases of HAVS are reported every
year.
What are the Symptoms?

Tingling and numbness in the fingers.


In the cold and wet fingers go blue then red
and are painful.
You cant feel things with your fingers.
Pain or tingling in your forearms at night
which stop you sleeping.
Loss of strength in you arms and hands.
What are the Symptoms?
Who is at Risk?

Users of breakers and


pokers, sanders and
angle grinders.
Users of scabblers
and needle guns.
Users of drills and
jigsaws.
Who is at Risk?

Those with diseases


that reduce blood
flow.
Workers in cold and
damp condition.
How Can I Prevent it?

Ask for low vibration


tools.
Try a different
approach to your job.
Use the right tool for
the job.
Keep blades and
cutting edges sharp.
How can I Prevent it?

Check the tool has


been properly
maintained.
Reduce the amount
of time you use the
tool.
Keep the handles
warm.
How can I Prevent it?

Improve your blood circulation by:


Keeping warm, wear gloves etc.
Giving up smoking. Smoking drastically
impairs blood flow through the body.
Massaging and exercising fingers during
work breaks.
What else Can I Do?

Learn to Recognise the signs of HAVS.


Stop work and report any symptoms to
your supervisor immediately.
Use any control measures provided, I.e
gloves etc, that your employer has
provided.
Ask for advice from your safety
department or safety rep.
Remember

Once you have had an attack of HAVS,


you will always be at risk.

Tell your supervisor as soon as you


suspect any symptoms.

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