SYMPTOMS OF HAND-ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME IN GAS-DISTRIBUTION OPERATIVES

Objectives-To survey the prevalence and severity of hand-arm vibration syndrome symptoms (HAVS), and to estimate past and current exposure t o hand held vibrating tools in a sample of gas distribution operatives breaking and re-instating road surfaces. Methods-153 gas distribution operatives (participation rate 81%) hom three company districts were assessed by an administered questionnaire, a clinical examination, and a simple cold challenge test to the hands, Exposure histories were ta ken aided by a picture album of past and current tools. information wa s obtained from several sources on the likely vibratory characteristic s of those tools. Estimates were thus obtained of the frequency of bla nching and neurological complaints in operatives, and of their lifetim e hours of exposure and lifetime dose of vibration, Results-On average , the sample, had spent 16 years in employment involving use of vibrat ory tools. 24% had symptoms or signs of blanching after use of tools i n the industry; 46% had troublesome persistent complaints of paraesthe siae or numbness, and these symptoms extended into the hands or arms i n 18% of workers. in 5.9% the distribution of symptoms was suggestive of carpel tunnel syndrome; and of ulnar nerve entrapment in a further 3.9%. The risks of blanching and neurological complaints rose signific antly with lifetime hours of use of vibrating tools and lifetime dose of vibration, Symptoms were generally mild and apparent only after a p rolonged interval, but there were exceptions, and cases had occurred a fter lower recent exposures. Conclusions-It has been suggested that as pects of the gas distribution operative's work mitigate against the ri sk normally anticipated from use of pneumatic road breaking tools. By contrast our data suggest that symptoms of HAVS do occur, given suffic ient exposure, a finding relevant not only to gas supply workers, but also to workers from other industries who break and repair road surfac es.