Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) describes the permanent health conditions that e ect the hands when exposed to prolonged vibration when using power tools. The syndrome is a debilitating disease that causes permanent damage to nerves, blood vessels, muscles and joints of the hand, wrist and arm. A loss of strength, dexterity and feeling in the hands will occur, meaning simple everyday tasks such as doing up buttons or counting coins will become dicult. HAVS can also reduce quality of life as sports and hobbies such as angling, darts, golf, DIY or gardening become more almost impossible.
EARLY SYMPTOMS Tingling or numbing sensation in the fingers Loss of strength and reduced grip Loss of precision in the hands Fingertips turning white and/or red Muscle spasms Painful hands or fingers in cold weather If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is vital that you cease using any vibratory power tools and contact your GP immediately.
Can someone aicted with HAVS be cured? Simply put, no. Once the damaging e ects of HAVS has onset, it is impossible to reverse. This makes it imperative that operators and employers are fully educated on the risks involved in using vibratory power tools. The good news, however, is that HAVS is entirely preventable, if operators and employers take the necessary preventative measures.
SUSCEPTIBLE TOOLS
Road Breakers Hammer Drills Rock Drills Impact Wrenches
Chipping Hammers Demolition Hammers Rammers Plate Compactors
Chainsaws Reciprocating Saws Concrete Pokers Scabblers
Brushcutters Angle Grinders Cut O Saws Needle Scalers
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