Reducing Injuries from High Vibration Equipment

Many manufacturers make tools that have reduced vibration output. While there are no United States regulations limiting vibration exposure, tool manufacturers often adhere to the stricter European limits for their products.

If you know the vibration level of a tool, you can determine the amount of time it can be safely used. This is referred to as the "trigger time." There are many vibration exposure calculators available on the internet.

When using high-vibration equipment, wear anti-vibration gloves that have air bladders in the fingers and palms. Keep your hands warm, and use as light a grip as possible to control the equipment. Take frequent breaks, and limit your overall use of the tool to the recommended trigger time.

To learn more about Construction Ergonomics visit our Construction Ergonomics Online Training web page.