Posted By Steve Holliday
No easy solution here John.

You can use the figures supplied by the manufacturers but these are likely to be way out as they are taken under laboratory conditions.

To find out properly you need to test in use vibration levels with a calibrated meter such as a Larson-Davies IHVM100 (I believe this is what the HSE use). This is a high cost piece of kit but it’s the only way to go for an accurate measurement.

Posted By Derek Rooney MIOSH MIIRSM
John

there would be no easy aswer to this, i've recently done research with Desoutter at Hemel Heampstead who are a manufacturer of air tools. The problem with measuring vibration is not only the technical ability to actually use the recording equipment but everone seems to use the tools in different ways. Take an angle grinding, someone will grind smoothly other put more pressure therefore you have two different readings for the same tool - then you have the grade of disc being used, the grade of metal being ground all of which give you different readings yet again.

We have found that we don;t actually use the equipment long enough to pose a risk from HAVS however we have found that we have a severe lack of knowledge on the subject and lack of training on the correct use of the equipment. Maintenance of the equipment also comes into it. If we take the angle grinder again, if it is not maintained properly then it will vibrate even more - then you look at an 1/4 inch impact wrench if it is not maintained then there is LESS vibration however less torgue meaning people hold the wrench on longer leaving them exposed to HAVS. If it is maintained then you have more vibration although you also have maximum torque therefore no need to hold the wrench longer than necessary.

This is a massive subject and one that i'm still trying to sort out. I have done a Risk Assessment, Safe system of work & information sheets for both employees and Management - you are more than welcome to a copy.

Also it might be beneficial to go along to the Desoutter factory in Hemel

Tel: 01442 344301 or on the web at www.chicagopneumatic.com

regards

Dez