CMU School of Drama


Friday, January 30, 2015

Mystery of Vibration Measurement in the U.S.

Sensidyne: Vibration, specifically hand arm vibrations (HAVs), has remained somewhat of a mystery for most safety professionals in the United Sates. Why is it that a hazard acknowledged around the world seems not to effect American workers?

1 comment:

Unknown said...

It is bitterly ironic that the work that causes vibration exposures could render the workers unable to continue their work. Our tactile senses are some of our most critical. We use them to create, execute actions, and protect ourselves. If unnoticed, white finger can seriously impair one's ability to perform everyday functions. Our fingers are some of the most neurologically sensitive areas on our bodies, and are exceptionally susceptible to vibrational exposure. Though public awareness of white finger is not wide, this growing problem is akin to the deafness experienced after prolonged exposure to loud music. There are many advocates who are fighting to educate the public on the dangers of concerts and listening to music through headphones. And yet, while vibration exposure is just a crippling, so little is known about it. The fact that OSHA hasn't really addressed this problem speaks volumes about how marginalized it is. As we wait for research on this to develop, we can't function without people subjecting themselves to vibration exposure. By the time the public is aware, it will be too late for many.