CANCELLED G1b: Quantifying Vibration Exposure and Health Outcomes in Drill Operators

Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Convention Center 

Hand-arm vibration (HAV) exposure remains a critical occupational hazard for drill operators, with prolonged exposure linked to a range of vascular and neurological disorders. This study examines the physiological effects of HAV on skin and core body temperatures, as well as the prevalence of HAV-related symptoms among drill operators, utilizing objective vibration measurements and standardized exposure guidelines. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 drill operators across various industrial sites, adhering to ISO 5349 standards for vibration assessment. Hand-arm vibration was measured using tri-axial accelerometers, and both root-mean-square (RMS) acceleration and time-weighted frequency values were calculated. The mean frequency-weighted RMS acceleration was found to be 7.07 m/s² (SD: 0.24), which is significantly higher than the recommended exposure action values. The corresponding vibration dose value (VDV) had a mean of 3.99 m/s² (SD: 0.52), further highlighting the severity of exposure. Clinically, 73.2% of the operators exhibited symptoms of vibration-induced white finger (VWF), while 90% reported persistent tingling in the right hand - indicative of early-stage Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).

These findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced risk management strategies, including tool maintenance, exposure duration monitoring, job rotation, and worker education. The presentation will provide exposure data, analysis, and recommendations.

S. R. Ahmad and M. Akram
College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Occupational Health and Safety Program, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
 

Madiha Ijaz, Sajid Rashid Ahmad and Muhammad Akram
College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Occupationa Health and Safety Program, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan  

Ergonomics