Reduced vibration power tools reduce the amount of vibration transmitted through the handles of the machine and onto the person using the equipment. Risk of injury related to use of vibrating tools is related to the level of vibration and the amount of time that the tool is used. If the vibration level of a tool is reduced, then workers can use that tool for a longer period of time and the risk of developing hand-arm vibration syndrome is reduced.

• Manufacturers, vendors, or worksites have reported a risk reduction.
• Safety and health experts believe there is a risk reduction.

Companies such as Bosch, DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Black & Decker have produced power tools that are specially designed to produce less vibration in order to minimize the harmful effects associated with hand-arm vibration.

Studies have shown that hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) occurs in people with exposure to hand-arm vibration. However, there is not specific research to demonstrate the effect of reduced vibration power tools on preventing HAVS. Health and safey experts believe that any reduction in exposure to hand-arm vibration could be beneficial in preventing new cases of HAVS.

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.

• Manufacturers or vendors have reported an increase in productivity.
• Safety and health experts believe there is an increase in productivity.

Companies such as Bosch, DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Black & Decker have produced power tools that are specially designed to produce less vibration.  

Studies have shown a clear association between using vibrating power tools and Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). Health and safety experts believe that using reduced vibration tools may increase productivity because 1) the tool can be used for longer periods, and 2) there may be a reduction in lost time injuries due as a result of HAVS, and 3) workers whose fingers are numb from using power tools are more likely to make errors while working.

Anti-vibration tools are general tools that may be found at your local hardware store or directly from the manufacturer's website.  Some manufacturers' websites have vibration exposure calculators, such as DeWalt Power Tools (www.dewalt.co.uk/vibration) and Milwaukee Tools (www.milwaukeetoolvibration.com). Here are some general brands:

Black & Decker
For purchasing information, visit http://www.blackanddecker.co.uk/powertools/ or contact at 1-800-544-6986 or by e-mail

Dewalt
For purchasing information, locate a store at http://www.dewalt.com/ or contact at 1-800-433-9258

Hitachi
For purchasing information, locate a store at http://www.hitachipowertools.com or contact by e-mail

Milwaukee
For purchasing information, visit http://www.milwaukeetool.com or contact at 1-800-729-3878 or by e-mail

• 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

• Masonry, Tile, Cement & Plaster
  • Chip, scrape and grind surfaces, or joints
    • Hand-Arm Vibration
  • Cut bricks, blocks, stone, concrete, tile or terrazzo
    • Hand-Arm Vibration
  • Drill holes and install reinforcing rods and anchors
    • Hand-Arm Vibration
    • Stressful hand & wrist activity
  • Vibrate and compact concrete, or grout
    • Hand-Arm Vibration