THE HAZARD:

Awkward and/or uncomfortable working conditions and repetitive movements of the hand, wrist or arm (including the use of force/rotation) place damaging strains on the back and limbs. Musculo-skeletal disorders including strains and sprains could result.

WHAT IS VWF/HAVS?:

Employees whose hands are regularly exposed to high vibration may suffer from various kinds of injury to arms and hands. This may include impaired blood circulation and damage to nerves and muscles. Collectively the injuries are known as Hand and Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).

Vibration White Finger (VWF), which affects the hands, is a reportable condition within the RIDDOR (1985) Regulations and is also a prescribed industrial disease as detailed by the Department of Social Security.

WHAT AMS CAN DO TO HELP:

Activities which include lifting, vibration and repetitive actions should be the subject of ergonomic assessment. Note should also be taken of the Manual Handling Regulations 1992 and Display Screen Equipment Regulations 1992. A training programme on the use of hazardous tools and machinery for new employees should be carried out by management for new employees. The starting point is the completion of a pre-employment medical questionnaire which includes a section to determine whether musculo-skeletal disorders are present. Further details regarding pre-employment screening are provided on our other information sheet.

For those in current employment the health screening questionnaire can be completed by the employee during the health screening programme and discussed initially with the Health Screening Nurse. Should a more detailed examination and Stockholm grading in accordance with HSE(G)1998 be required, onward referral to our Occupational Medical Physician is recommended.