8.0 Vibration

8.2 Control measures for vibration risks

Eliminate exposure to vibration

Consider using work methods that do not require using powered hand tools or sitting or standing on vibrating machines (for example, use tools or machines operated by remote or use mobile plant-mounted tools rather than hand tools).

Minimise exposure to vibration

If eliminating the source of the vibration is not reasonably practicable, look at how you can minimise the amount of vibration your workers are exposed to.

Examples of how to minimise vibration include:

using power tools and plant that produce less noise and vibration
using methods of work that produce less vibration (for example, use hydraulic rather than compressed air tools)
isolating vibrating machinery, mobile plant, or vehicles from the operator by providing fully independent seating
choosing power tools and plant that direct cold air (for example, from the tool’s exhaust) away from hands
training workers on choosing the right tool or plant for the job (one which has the appropriate size, power, and capacity for the task and work conditions)
making sure workers are trained in how to safely use the plant or tools in a way that minimises the levels of vibration
maintaining power tools and machines regularly. Repair faults as soon as possible. Make sure suspension systems are well maintained
maintaining vehicle seats and seat suspension
limiting the time workers are exposed to vibration, especially while working in cold conditions (for example, job rotation, lots of breaks)
discussing with workers how exposure to vibration can harm them and training them in how to identify the symptoms of HAVS and CTS. Tell workers how they can report their symptoms
reducing exposure to working in the cold, providing warm/hot drinks, and having workers take breaks in a warm room.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

PPE should only be used to manage the risks from vibration after all other reasonably practicable steps have been taken.

Thermal PPE can be used to keep workers warm and dry (for example, thermal, non-slip gloves).

Note: Anti-vibration gloves reduce worker exposure to high frequency vibration but not low frequency vibration. However, in general, gloves can be helpful because they keep your workers’ hands warm. When choosing gloves, pick non-slip gloves that are not too thick. Thick gloves mean workers have to grip tighter, increasing the chance of HAVS and CTS and other musculoskeletal conditions.

Use mats or insoles to reduce foot-transmitted vibration.

8.3 Monitoring vibration exposure

Once you have taken all reasonably practicable measures to eliminate or minimise the risks from vibration, check if ongoing vibration exposure monitoring is needed.

Ongoing monitoring can help inform you whether control measures are effective at minimising the risk. For more information, see Section 16.0: Exposure monitoring

Consider including monitoring for signs and symptoms of vibration-related illness or injury into your health monitoring programme. For more information, see Section 17.0: Health monitoring

8.0 Vibration

On this page:

8.1 Introduction to managing vibration risks

Whole body vibration

Hand-arm vibration