We have a process at work in which the operatives are required to use needle descalers to remove dried industrial inks from metal work. The equipment has a rated m/s2 of about 12.5 (manufacturers rating not field data). This brings the EAV in at 19 minutes and ELV at 1 hour and 17 minutes. Historically, the operatives had done this task for 8 hours (probably about 5-6 hours trigger time) and thus over exposed. Im now getting it in the neck from the engineering manager whose argument is that 1). they've always done it this way (yes,I know..) and 2). that the people may not use any handtools for the rest of the year so whats the problem if they get all their dose in one go (I've tried to educate him on this aspect to). I've suggested rotating employees to reduce their trigger time, providing better tools (which I accept is difficult due to the nature of the job) and examining work methods to see if it can be done a different way. Assuming that it cannot, does anyone have any further advice?

Jason Pretend to sympathise with the Engineering Dinosaur and explain to him that you did not write the law; you are there to help him. ie win him round to your view point The situation is that your company has been in breach of the law, to continue with this situation would certainly bring more and bigger HAVS claims from your employees and stiffer fines when the HSE become aware. There is no doubt in my mind that you are causing serious and permanent injury to your employees which is unacceptable. Tell the Eng Manager that he / you have to bite the bullet and put things right. The details that you have put into your post tells me you have some knowledge of the subject. Start by informing the Senior Manager responsible of the situation and then give him your action plan. You need his support. Invite a couple of tool suppliers to advice on alternative lower vibrating tools, they may have the answer. nb The field data from your existing tools will be much higher than what you state above. Also consider the noise and dust exposure to these operatives Steve

Jason I have heard of 'grit' blasting using solid carbon dioxide in similar situations. This introduces other issues, of course, but it might be worth considering. LB

We have had the same problem where I work, get in touch and I'll give you the info that we have, in any case don’t forget about a noise risk assessment as these needle guns are very noisy.