Thanks to advancements in knowledge and technology we are in a safer era of manufacturing than perhaps ever before. And yet certain tools, when not operated correctly, can lead to irreparable damage as a direct result of negligence at behest of the company and operator in question.
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is an entirely preventable illness, and yet, once the damage has occurred it becomes a permanent fixture in the lives of those affected. It is a serious and often disabling condition. The Building Safety Group published a series of articles in 2019 highlighting the pains behind HAVS. One such article recognised that between 2008 and 2017 there were over 7000 new claims for HAVS according to the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)
The damage incurred by HAVS can include the incapacity to carry out previous job functions which may have required fine work, besides this; the cold weather can also trigger painful finger blanching attacks. Early symptoms of the illness include tingling and numbness in the fingers, and an impaired ability to be able to feel things with your fingers for simple everyday tasks such as fastening buttons. Whilst strength will notably decrease in the hands of those affected, continued use of vibration tools in light of these symptoms, can lead to the numbness becoming a permanent fixture as the ability to feel things is eventually completely lost.
The same article by The Building Safety Group goes on to speak at length regarding the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations, which came into being in July 2015. This law has been designed to where possible eliminate or at least control vibration exposure.
With over 35 years’ experience in the industry, Abbey Industrial Solutions are leading providers of tooling resolutions and can help you to monitor and regulate vibrations. Within Abbey, we have a dedicated team of technical engineers fully trained to conduct full, on-site assessments using HAVS testing equipment, before offering tangible and fully HSE recognised solutions to reduce both risk on site and with equipment, whilst also advising of best practice.
Contact the team at Abbey Industrial Solutions today to learn how we can help you maximise your manufacturing productivity: discover@abbeyis.co.uk | 01924 224240
