Background Vibration-induced white finger (VWF) is the vascular component of the hand–arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). Two tests have been standardised so as to assist the diagnosis of VWF: the measurement of finger rewarming times and the measurement of finger systolic blood pressures (FSBPs).
To be diagnosed as vibration syndrome, these neurologic symptoms must be more persistent and occur without provocation by immediate exposure to vibration. Other symptoms of vibration syndrome include blanching, pain, and flushing. The symptoms usually appear suddenly, and are precipitated by exposure to cold.
The tests commence with a measure of grip strength and finger dexterity. Neurological tests involve the determination of vibrotactile perception thresholds (using the HVLab Vibrotactile Perception Meter) and thermotactile perception thresholds for hot and cold (using the HVLab Thermal Aesthesiometer).
The first symptomatic stage (1SN) consists essentially of episodic finger numbness with or without tingling, the second involves, in addition, reduced sensory perception (2SN), while the most severe stage (3SN) focuses on reduced tactile discrimination and/or manipulative dexterity.
It is known that of those exposed to vibration at the Exposure Action Level (an eight-hour daily average equivalent of 2.5 m/sec2) for eight years about 10 per cent will develop vascular symptoms.
Tier: 4 – A qualified doctor provides formal diagnosis, advice about RIDDOR reporting and fitness for work. A detailed description is taken by the doctor, followed by the examination of blood pressure examination, sensation and grip strength dexterity.
Is there a treatment for HAVS? In general, HAVS is irreversible and there is no effective treatment or cure. Medications can sometimes be effective in reducing the frequency and severity of blanching attacks, and anti-inflammatory medications can be used to reduce pain symptoms.
Hand-arm vibration (HAV) can cause vibration white finger, a permanent and painful numbness and tingling in the hands and arms, also painful joints and muscle weakening. There is also evidence that it may cause carpel tunnel syndrome.
Conclusion: Carpal tunnel syndrome can be distinguished from hand-arm vibration syndrome if all factors—anatomical, associated physiological and medical conditions, work exposure history, and ulnar nerve involvement—are evaluated. In some circumstances, the conditions may be present together.
What you should know. Vibration is transmitted into your hands and arms when using hand held / operated tools and machinery. Excessive exposure can affect the nerves, blood vessels, muscles and joints of the hand, wrist and arm causing Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).
The Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome is primarily caused by the use of vibrating hand-held tools, for instance, pneumatic jackhammers, drills, gas powered chain saws and electrical tools such as grinders. Such tools involve vibration which is transferred form the tool to the hands and arms of the person holding the tool.
Discussion. HAVS related impairment is disabling. Workers require improved resources and support to address symptom management and safe strategies to minimize work disability.
Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), formerly known as 'vibration white finger', is a condition caused by exposure of the hands and arms to vibration when using hand held tools (e.g. pneumatic drills, grinders, chipping hammers).
Provide your employees with protective clothing when necessary to keep them warm and dry. This will encourage good blood circulation which should help protect them from developing vibration white finger. Gloves can be used to keep hands warm, but should not be relied upon to provide protection from vibration.
How often should HAVS be undertaken? Level 1 HAVS surveillance should be conducted at the new-starter stage. Level 2 HAVS surveillance should be conducted annually for those who do not have any symptoms of Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) with a level 3 surveillance being conducted every 3 years.
A medical practitioner working for an occupational health provider, or a GP, can diagnose HAVS in a person based on a series of tests and questions.
There are two primary methods that you can use to obtain the vibration magnitude values for power tools: Use declared vibration values provided by tool manufacturers as an estimate. Measure in-use vibration magnitude with a vibration meter.
See your doctor if you experience intermittent numbness or tingling in one or both hands. Get emergency medical care if the numbness: Began suddenly. Follows an injury or accident.
Purpose. Long-term vibrations are known to cause neurovascular diseases, which are common in workers who operate handheld power tools or motor vehicles. Understanding the neuropathology of vibration-induced nerve injury is critical to its prevention and treatment.
Generally, the condition can take many years to develop and early symptoms can go unnoticed. Importantly, if you have suffered any degree of hand-arm vibration syndrome due to negligence by your employer then you may be eligible to make a HAVS compensation claim.
HAVS surveillance consists of 5 Tiers:
Tier 3 – If an employee declares vibration-related symptoms a Tier 3 assessment will be carried out by a HAVS qualified nurse. This includes taking a detailed history and physical tests that assess the vascular and the nervous system of the hands.
Who Cannot Use Vibration Plates? If you have heart disease or suffered a heart attack in the past, vibrating plates should be avoided. This also applies if you've experienced a stroke, have a pacemaker, or been diagnosed with a blood clotting disorder.