Evaluation of Protective Gloves and Working Techniques for Reducing Hand-arm Vibration Exposure in the Workplace

Evaluation of Protective Gloves and Working Techniques for Reducing Hand-arm Vibration Exposure in the Workplace: Matija MILOSEVIC, et al. Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Ryerson University, Canada-Objectives: Operation of handheld power tools results in exposure to hand-arm vibrations, which over time lead to numerous health complications. The objective of this study was to evaluate protective equipment and working techniques for the reduction of vibration exposure. Methods: Vibration transmissions were recorded during different work techniques: with one- and two-handed grip, while wearing protective gloves (standard, air and anti-vibration gloves) and while holding a foam-covered tool handle. The effect was examined by analyzing the reduction of transmitted vibrations at the wrist. The vibration transmission was recorded with a portable device using a triaxial accelerometer. Results: The results suggest large and significant reductions of vibration with appropriate safety equipment. Reductions of 85.6% were achieved when anti-vibration gloves were used. Conclusions: Our results indicated that transmitted vibrations were affected by several factors and could be measured and significantly reduced. (J Occup Health 2012; 54: 250-253)