Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)

The use of power hand tools can result in an increased risk of developing Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) or Raynaud’s phenomenon of occupational origin (also known as White Finger Disease), a serious, irreversible neurovascular disease of the hands.

Where job re-design is not feasible, the best method to reduce exposure to vibration is to use power hand tools that have both ergonomic (e.g., the proper handle shape and size, as well as overall tool balance and weight) and reduced vibration designs. Several equipment manufacturers have begun designing their tools with the vibration largely engineered out.

Exposure to vibration can also be reduced through administrative controls. This would include rotating employees or limiting hours of use. The National Institute of Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH) recommends limiting the number of hours and days per week an employee must use a vibrating hand tool. NIOSH suggests limiting its use to 10-minute operating cycles, totaling no more than two hours per day and no more than two consecutive days a week. Another method of restricting its use is to eliminate piecework and incentive pay.

A less effective method of controlling exposure is to wear anti-vibration gloves. There are many companies that manufacture and sell anti-vibration gloves. For best protection, gloves should meet the universal anti-vibration standard, ANSI S3.40-2002: ISO 10819.1996.

At a minimum, the glove must:

1. Take out or remove 30% of the vibration.
2. Keep hands warm and dry.
3. Protect the full hand—no fingerless gloves since Raynaud’s phenomenon starts at the fingertips and progresses toward the palm of the hand(s).

Although an anti-vibration glove will increase the latency period of HAVS, gloves will not replace a well-designed tool with anti-vibration capabilities. Anti-vibration gloves, therefore, should be used in conjunction with anti-vibration tools for best results.

Although an anti-vibration glove will increase the latency period of HAVS, gloves will not replace a well-designed tool with anti-vibration capabilities. Anti-vibration gloves, therefore, should be used in conjunction with anti-vibration tools for best results.

Additional resources:

• Hand-Arm Vibration Checklist
• Training Guide on Hand-Arm Vibration
• Hand arm vibration syndrome – workers who use power tools may be at risk
• A Critical Review of Epidemiologic Evidence for Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders of the Neck, Upper Extremity, and Low Back
• Online database of vibration levels by type of hand tool
• A British resource for evaluating vibration exposure at work with tool manufacturer’s specifications. These British regulations do not apply to the U.S. but do serve as useful guidelines.

Revised: 04/2017