Can We Explain the Exposure Variability Found in Hand-arm Vibrations when Using Angle Grinders? A Round Robin Laboratory Study

Overview

Journal Int Arch Occup Environ Health

Specialty Environmental Health

Date 2009 Dec 8

PMID 19967384

Citations 1

Authors

I Liljelind

J Wahlstrom

L Nilsson

M Persson

T Nilsson

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Objectives: To quantify variance components of hand-arm vibration exposure from data collected in a laboratory study of four different angle grinders.

Methods: Four different angle grinders were sent to seven laboratories for grinding tests by three operators at each laboratory. Vibration in both the throttle and support handles was measured. For one grinder, the experimental set-up was repeated and two measurements were collected for that specific grinder.

Results: At least one-third of the estimated variability is attributable to the wheel and less than one-third to the operator. In repeated experiments, between-occasion, operator and wheel factors explained 4, 29 and 17% of the total variability, respectively.

Conclusions: Since measured vibrations in the support and throttle handles are significantly differed, measurements should be taken at both locations. Factors influencing vibration variability include the presence/absence of an auto balance unit, wheel and operator, but other factors remain to be elucidated.

Citing Articles

The Effect of a Mechanical Arm System on Portable Grinder Vibration Emissions.

McDowell T, Welcome D, Warren C, Xu X, Dong R Ann Occup Hyg. 2015; 60(3):371-86.

PMID: 26628522 PMC: 4779390. DOI: 10.1093/annhyg/mev084.

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