1. Get the gloves on: Keeping the hands warm and dry is essential for healthy blood circulation to the hands and fingers. Gloves also act as a dampener between the tool and the hands, reducing the vibratory energy absorbed by the hands. Not to be used as a permanent HAVS reducing solution. OPERATOR ACTIONS
4. Get the form right: When using vibratory tools the operators stance and grip is critical to safe working. If the operator is overstretched, the tool is overhead or compressed close the body, this is not only a slip danger, it makes the stance rigid. This results in tension on the muscles, making them more susceptible to vibration damage. Applying excess force to a tool, such as pressing down on a road breaker, puts excess stress on the tool which will increase vibration. Locking the arms or legs can often put stress on the joints and nerves, causing issues such as carpol tunnel syndrome. Overgripping tools puts muscle under tension, making them more susceptible to vibration damage. Just remember, keep a relatively relaxed grip and let the tool do the work! 3. Select the right tool for the job: With many tools capable of drilling, cutting and grinding varying materials, it is important to select the tool most suited to the task, especially when working for prolonged periods. For example, using a demolition hammer over a combination hammer, or a cut o saw over an angle grinder, will provide a more smoother finish, resulting in reduced working times, and thus reducing exposure. Selecting a larger, more powerful tool also helps reduce time and the vibration experienced. 2. Take regular intervals when using tools: Introducing breaks when using vibratory power tools allows time for blood circulation to return to the hands and fingers. Prolonged exposure to HAVS will increase the intensity of damage done to blood vessels and nerves due to a lack of circulation caused by continous use. Set intervals when using tools by performing other tasks free of vibration.
6. Look after your body: Smoking and drinking alcohol in excess restricts blood circulation and makes the dangers of vibration more likely. By giving up smoking and drinking less you will reduce the risks of HAVS. 5. Keep it sharp: Using blunt or poor quality blades and drill bits can increase vibration levels significantly. Blunt blades and drill bits increase the size of physical contact between the tool and material, putting further pressure on the tool to work harder, and longer, which increases vibration. Higher grade diamond blades and attachments will be made with better quality materials, giving a cleaner, faster result. Ensure blades are installed facing the direction specified by the tool.
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