Vibration Testing Services

Vibration the problem

WHAT IS - Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome “White Finger”

HAVS is an irreversible condition affecting nerves and circulation caused by vibration.

The effect is cumulative – each exposure can worsen the condition. Harm can be caused by as little as 15 minutes exposure per day for some tools. Risk can be eliminated / reduced by controlling exposure.This condition affects people who regularly use high vibration equipment.

Vibration from the equipment can damage the blood vessels in the fingers, reducing the supply of blood. It can also damage nerves, leading to a loss of feeling in the fingers and hands, especially when they become cold. The muscles and bones may also become damaged.

Sufferers find it hard to move their fingers and lose their ability to grip things properly. The condition can become very painful. The fingers will become white and numb, pins and needles and vibration related to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Whole Body Vibration Testing

In July 2005 a new directive on Whole Body Vibration Testing was released by the HSE which will have to become part of all company’s Health and Safety Policies.

The consultation period has been over the last 4 years. During this time company’s should have been thinking about doing risk assessments on their Plant and Vehicles, before it comes into force in 2010.

Since 2006 WHC has already began testing it’s own excavators, rollers, dumpers etc for Whole Body Vibration as well its clients

Vibration the solution

Controlling vibration in the work place does not need to be difficult. A practical and workable approach involving management teams as well as operatives will ensure a safe working environment.

WHC follow these simple rules to ensure that your best practice statements are adhered to at all times.

Ensure all equipment is tested for vibration levels at least once a year
Provide accurate and up to date trigger times from a variety of tools
Collate this information to verify tool maintenance
Implement good practice health and safety training

HAND ARM VIBRATION TESTING

Over the past seven years, WHC have developed a programme of preventative measures to ensure our customers are not being over exposed to vibration.We use our purpose built testing area at our depot to assess the vibration impact of equipment. This provides us with realistic readings – not just the manufacturer’s recommendations.

We use the latest in Noise and Vibration technology to provide our customers with the most accurate information.

We then provide either a manual tool tagging system or the
Reactec’s HAVmeter system which is a simple and complete solution to HAV management.

With this information, we provide the workforce with a means to monitor their exposure as they work whilst allowing the management to supervise their employees.

(For more information regarding the Reactec System please give us a call as demos are available).