The hand-arm vibration syndrome may occur in a worker using a vibrating piece of equipment.
Components to the hand-arm vibration syndrome:
(1) circulatory disturbances in the fingers and hand(s), with vasospasm (Raynaud's phenomenon) resulting in finger blanching ("white finger"), following exposure to cold or less often to vibration itself.
(2) sensory and motor disturbances in the upper extremity, resulting in numbness, tingling, loss of finger coordination and/or dexterity.
(3) musculoskeletal disturbances in the upper extremity.
While these components often occur concurrently, they may develop independently, so that it is desirable to evaluation each separately.
The hand-arm vibration syndrome can occur with almost any vibrating source, but some exposures are more likely than others to result in symptoms.
Risk
Tools
high
drills, fettling tools, impact wrenches, riveting guns, jack hammers, grinders and chain saws
moderate
brush saws, cement vibrators, leveler
low
floor buffers and dental drills
The period of exposure before onset of symptoms may range from 1 month to 30 years.
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