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Hand‐arm vibration controls: A perspective based on performance and cost dimensions

David J Edwards (The Off‐highway Plant and Equipment Research Centre (OPERC), Department of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK)
Gary D Holt (The Off‐highway Plant and Equipment Research Centre (OPERC), Department of Civil and Building Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK)

Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction

ISSN: 1366-4387

Article publication date: 1 March 2006

247

Abstract

The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations (CVWR), quantify workplace vibration exposure using exposure action, and exposure limit values (EAV and ELV respectively). Hand‐arm vibration (HAV) risk can be objectively assessed using hand‐tool vibration magnitude data, for comparison to the EAV and ELV. When considering risk controls, one disadvantage of this ‘focus’ on vibration magnitude, is that it might deflect appreciation of the economic implications of such controls, resulting from for example: restrictions on tool usage time; the need for operator rotas where continuous tool use is required; and complications in estimating labour costs because of these types of condition. Based on a sample of hand‐tools’ performance data, this research developed ‘hybrid’ (performance/vibration) dimensions for quantifying tools’ efficacy; representing (interalia) units of work achievable to reach the EAV and ELV. These hybrid dimensions characterize an alternative performance‐based (and therefore financially related) way of considering a tool’s ‘suitability’ within CVWR parameters; over and above the (selection) criterion of tool vibration magnitude. Analyses are then presented that investigate the time and cost ramifications of using multiple operators, to sustain continuous tool usage while keeping exposure levels within CVWR limits.

Keywords

Citation

Edwards, D.J. and Holt, G.D. (2006), "Hand‐arm vibration controls: A perspective based on performance and cost dimensions", Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction, Vol. 11 No. 1, pp. 21-32. https://doi.org/10.1108/13664380680001077

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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