OHS practices - Hazards

Vibration

Vibration is the rapid to and fro motion generated by power driven machines or tools. The effects of vibration exposure can cause both short and long-term physical disorders including:

• motion sickness
• giddiness
• damage to bones and joints
• stomach and digestive problems
• variation in blood pressure
• nuisance and discomfort
• reduced work output through fatigue
• damage to the nervous system, eg numbness.

The effect can build up over a long period. Some people exposed to excessively high levels of vibration may show symptoms within a few months. However in most cases, symptoms develop far more slowly and can be of a severe and permanent nature.

Prevention and control measures include:

• purchasing vibration reduced equipment
• reducing vibration by redesigning equipment and tools
• isolating the operator by using insulation and remote controls
• lessening the exposure time with job rotation.