Vibration syndrome in chipping and grinding workers.

A clear conclusion from these studies is that vibration syndrome occurs in chipping and grinding workers in this country and that earlier reports that it may not exist were probably inaccurate. The careful selection of exposed and control groups for analysis strengthens the observed association between vibration syndrome and the occupational use of pneumatic chipping hammers and grinding tools. In the foundry populations studied the vibration syndrome was severe, with short latencies and high prevalences of the advanced stages. The shipyard population did not display this pattern. This difference can be attributed to variations in work practices but the more important factor seems to be the effect of incentive work schedules. Comparisons of groups of hourly and incentive workers from the shipyard and within foundry populations consistently demonstrated that incentive work was associated with increased severity of vibration syndrome. Excessive vibration levels were measured on chipping and grinding tools. Of the factors studied, reduction of throttle level decreased the vibration levels measured on chipping hammers. For grinders, the working condition of the tool affected the measured vibration acceleration levels. Grinders receiving average to poor maintenance showed higher vibration levels. The results of objective clinical testing did not yield tests with diagnostic properties. To date, the clinical judgment of the physician remains the primary focus of the diagnosis of vibration syndrome. A number of actions can be taken to prevent vibration syndrome. Preplacement medical examinations can identify workers predisposed to or experiencing Raynaud's phenomenon or disease. Informing employees and employers about the signs, symptoms, and consequences of vibration syndrome can encourage workers to report the condition to their physicians promptly. Engineering approaches to preventing vibration syndrome include increased quality control on castings to reduce finishing time and automation of the finishing process. Tool manufacturers can contribute by modifying or redesigning tools to reduce vibration. The technology to reduce vibration from hand tools exists but the engineering application is difficult. Vibration from chain saws has been reduced through changes in design and some companies have begun to redesign jackhammers, scalers, grinders, and chipping hammers. As these become available, purchasers can encourage manufacturers by selecting tools with antivibration characteristics. Vibration from tools currently in use can be controlled by periodically scheduled inspection and maintenance programs for vibrating tools.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)