ACTUAL TEXT OF THE POSTER:
What are we talking about here?
Power tools, whether electric, gas, or pneumatic, generate
vibration energy which is transmitted through the hands, wrists,
arms and shoulders and sometimes even amplified by the body structures
it passes through. Generally, the vibration does not seem like
a problem just a part of the job. But a very large number
of jobs involve the use of vibrating equipment, from jackhammers
to hammer drills.
So, what's the problem?
Problems arise with long-term exposure to vibration. HAVS
(Hand/Arm Vibration Syndrome) is the general classification for
several vibration-related disorders (see list) and now affects
millions of workers worldwide. The development of HAVS may be
gradual or sensations of tingling or numbness in the fingers
may show up within a few weeks. Most HAVS disorders have no medical
cure. This makes it critical to protect against vibration exposure
whenever possible.
There are many ways to reduce the risk of harm from vibration
exposure, including:
Improve tool design to decrease vibration;
Maintain tools for maximum efficiency;
Schedule breaks to reduce exposure duration;
Modify tasks where possible;
Keep the body and hands warm;
Adhere to standards for maximum daily exposure to vibration;
Use personal protective equipment.
What else can I do?
Since your job requires the use of power tools, you can help
protect yourself by using the best vibration reducing materials
available, such as Decade® brand gloves and glove liners
with Gfom™, which reduces transmitted vibration energy
significantly throughout the vibration frequency range generated
by power tools (see chart). Decade vibration reducing gloves
and liners come in full and half-finger styles, with and without
integral wrist supports.
Ask your safety officer for more information.
Vibration reducing gloves with exclusive Gfom™ palm
and finger pads provide the protection you must have.
Cumulative Trauma Disorders associated with vibration
to the arms and hands:
Hand/Arm Vibration Syndrome
(White Finger Disease)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Tendonitis
Tenosynovitis
de Quervain's Disease
Osteoarthritis
Decalcification
Dupuytren's Contracture
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