W43: Exposure to vibration

Exposure to vibration refers to a group of conditions that result from repeated or prolonged contact with machinery, tools, or vehicles that produce significant vibration. This repeated exposure can lead to a variety of health issues. Commonly, these conditions affect the hands and arms, leading to a condition known as Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). Symptoms often start with tingling and numbness in the fingers, progressing to a loss of strength and dexterity. Long-term exposure can cause permanent damage. Besides HAVS, exposure to vibration can also impact the musculoskeletal, nervous, and circulatory systems, potentially leading to conditions like back pain, nerve damage, and reduced blood flow. Occupation plays a significant role in these conditions, with those in jobs involving tools like jackhammers, chainsaws or certain kinds of vehicles being particularly at risk.