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Some hand-held power tools may require training of the operator to ensure

that low vibration exposures are achieved and sustained. It may also be necessary

to train others such as those who will undertake maintenance of tools. Suppliers

have a duty to alert users to particular training that is required. This might include:

training in new operator skills for tools with vibration reduction features;

w

notification of applications of the tool that produce unusually high

w

vibration emissions;

information about particular methods of using the tool to be adopted or

w

avoided that greatly affect the emitted vibration; and

training in maintenance requirements to avoid unnecessary exposure.

w

Users have duties under PUWER 98 to ensure all those using work equipment have

adequate health and safety information and instructions and have received

adequate training.

ANTI-VIBRATION GLOVES

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At present, anti-vibration gloves generally provide negligible attenuation of

vibration. Tool suppliers should not recommend anti-vibration gloves as a means of

attenuating the vibration from hand-held power tools unless models of anti-vibration

gloves have been demonstrated to provide protection in accordance with the

requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992.

However, gloves may help prevent vibration injury by keeping hands warm and dry.

REFERENCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY

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Guidance published by HSE includes:

HS(G)88 Hand-arm vibration

INDG126(rev1) Health risks from hand-arm vibration. Advice for employees

INDG175(rev1) Health risks from hand-arm vibration. Advice for employers

INDG 338 Power Tools. Reduce vibration health risks. Guide for employers

CD-ROM The successful management of hand-arm vibration.

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Standards for evaluating exposure: