Jumat, 21 Desember 2007

VIBRATION HAZARDS

Vibrations caused by power tools, vehicles and heavy equipment expose six million workers to whole-body and hands-transmitted vibration, which can cause vascular, neural and musculoskeletal disorders, according to NIOSH.

A study by Loughborough University in England produced a long list of sources of occupational vibration – from power and impact tools to vehicle seat dynamics and steering wheel vibration (for the complete list, go to: http://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/hu/groups/noisevib).

The Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety says employers can measure vibration with accelerometers and frequency analyzers. They can protect workers from vibration by providing them with appropriate tools and vibration-absorbing materials like gloves. The can train their employees on safe work practices, such as employing a minimum hand grip, avoiding continuous exposure and maintaining sharpened cutting tools. They should encourage employees to consult doctors at the first sign of vibration disease.

Tidak ada komentar: