A reduced vibration, or anti-vibration, power tool is an engineering control designed to generate less vibration than conventional power tools.  Many tools are now available that are designed to produce less vibration. Reduced vibration tools should always be used with full-fingered anti-vibration gloves that are certified to meet international vibration standards (ISO 10819).
 

Some hand-held power tools can produce a lot of vibration. Certain tools generate vibration levels so high thay they can damage the blood vessels and nerves in the worker's hands. Workers are at a greater risk of developing a vibration-related injury if they use vibrating power tools often or for long periods of time. These injuries can be prevented, but there is no cure once damage has been done. One solution is to use reduced vibration power tools. Many tools are now available that are designed to produce less vibration. Reduced vibration tools should always be used with full-fingered anti-vibration gloves that are certified to meet international vibration standards (ISO 10819).

        
Figure 1. Vibration dampening tool in use (Photo courtesy of ELCOSH)

Figure 2. Vibration-dampening gloves (Photo courtesy of ELCOSH)

Tools and processes that create excessive hand-arm vibration to users (workers) may have an impact on production and maintenance, which may impact schedule or cost. Products may be more costly to produce and maintain due to effects of HAV on skilled production workers.

• Purchase and use only power tools which are designed to reduce vibration (called anti-vibration, or A/V) and reduce musculoskeletal injuries.  NOTE: An ergonomically designed power tool does not mean the tool has reduced vibration attributes and vice versa.
• Use only full-finger protected anti-vibration gloves, which meet or exceed the following Anti-vibration Glove standard: ANSI S3.40-2002 - ISO 10819.
• Use good work practices, including: 
  • Letting the power tool do the work
  • Holding the power tool with the slightest, grip possible, consistent with safe work practices
  • Keeping hands and body warm and dry
  • Not smoking (nicotine, cold, and vibration all constrict blood vessels - impeding circulation)
• Maintain power tools in good condition.
• Make workers aware of hand-arm vibration signs and symptoms, and the need to see their safety managers and health care providers if signs and symptoms occur.

Dan Anton, PT, PhD, ATC and Alysha Meyers, PhD – University of Iowa

• Excavation & Demolition
  • Chip, break and recycle concrete
    • Hand-Arm Vibration
  • Deconstruct superstructures
    • Hand-Arm Vibration
  • Drill rock and concrete and install tie backs
    • Hand-Arm Vibration