Avoiding “White Finger”
Certain power tools vibrate or transmit vibration into an operator’s hand and/or arm (or other body part).
Continued use has the potential of leading to a condition termed “white finger” (Raynaud’s Phenomenon). Symptoms include aching in the wrists and muscles of the forearm, tingling sensations, numbness and whiteness in the fingers caused by restricted circulation.
The following suggestions are indicated to help reduce the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) from these types of tools:
(1) Choose power tools that offer anti-vibration controls and/or handles coated with a material that suppresses vibration
(2) Properly maintain power tools; make sure tools are kept balanced, clean and lubricated
(3) Wear gloves designed to absorb or decrease vibration
(4) Assign more than one employee to the job that requires the operation of equipment or a tool that vibrates.
(Information provided by Ergo-Motion Consulting)
RETURN TO WORK
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Click below for an excerpt from a presentation he made at the AWCBC Conference in British Columbia.