Medical Specialisms

Human Exposure to Vibration & Acoustics

Being exposed to vibration may result in health issues, it is therefore important that the levels of vibration are monitored and assessed accordingly.

The operation of vibrating machinery and objects should not be a barrier to a healthy workforce.  Xi can help organisations take action to reduce risks associated with this type of work, whilst optimising productivity levels.

Whole-body vibration (WBV) transmits through the seat or feet of employees who drive mobile machines, or other work vehicles, over rough and uneven surfaces. This may result in large shocks and jolts which pose health risks such as back-pain.  Xi can offer advice to employers to ensure they adhere to “The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005”.

Over exposure to HAVs can lead to highly debilitating and painful conditions such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and White Finger.  In the construction industry, where personal power tools are in use, workers are at particular risk of being exposed to hand vibration.  European legislation “The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005” requires employers to monitor and limit their employees’ exposure to vibration.  The engineering team at Xi were responsible for developing the industry leading HAVmeter which automatically monitors and advises users on their vibration exposure.

Standards

Xi Engineering work to British and International standards on the effects of vibration and acoustics on humans.  Xi sits on several working groups and committees that have kept us at the leading edge of policies on this subject.  These standards are applicable across industries and are used on projects such as the effect of vibration in ambulances, the acoustic impact of a wind turbine, and the effect of working with heavy sewing machinery.

Compliance

Xi can help to identify the monitoring, controls and actions which are required to be taken to ensure compliance with standards.  This may involve, limiting time periods of working with high impact machinery and tools, isolating the object from the user or designing out the negative vibrations.

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