It can be caused by several different factors, including: 

• The use of power tools. Many power tools, such as jackhammers, pneumatic drills, and chainsaws, generate high levels of vibration. 
• The operation of vehicles. Construction vehicles, such as excavators, bulldozers, and dump trucks, can also produce high levels of vibration. 
• Working on uneven surfaces. Working on uneven surfaces can cause vibration to be transmitted through the body. 

Vibration health effects: 

• Vibration white finger (VWF). VWF is a condition that causes the fingers to become white, numb, and painful. It is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the fingers. 
• Back pain. Vibration can cause back pain by putting stress on the spine. 
• Hearing loss. Vibration can damage the eardrums and cause hearing loss. 
• Muscle fatigue. Vibration can cause muscle fatigue, which can make it difficult to perform tasks. 

Reduce the risk of vibration-related injuries in construction: 

• Using low-vibration tools and equipment. There are low-vibration tools and equipment available which can be used in construction. 
• Taking breaks. Workers should take breaks from vibration-producing activities every 20-30 minutes to allow their bodies to rest. 
• Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE, such as gloves and ear protection, can help to reduce the risk of vibration-related injuries. 
• Training workers on the risks of vibration. Workers should be trained on the risks of vibration and how to protect themselves from health effects. 

By following these steps, employers and workers can help to reduce the risk of vibration-related injuries in construction. 

Vibration White Finger (VWF) 

Vibration white finger (VWF) is a condition that causes the fingers to become white, numb, and painful. It is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the fingers. VWF is mainly caused by exposure to high levels of vibration over an extended period. 

The symptoms of VWF may vary from person to person. Some people may experience only mild symptoms, such as tingling and numbness in the fingers. Others may experience more severe symptoms, such as pain, coldness, and swelling in the fingers. 

There is no cure for VWF, but the symptoms can be managed. Treatment usually involves avoiding vibration exposure and using medications to improve blood flow to the fingers. 

Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) 

Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a type of vibration that is transmitted through the body. It can be caused by several factors, including driving on rough roads, operating vibrating machinery, and working on vibrating surfaces. 

WBV health effects: 

• Back pain. WBV can cause back pain by putting stress on the spine. 
• Muscle fatigue. WBV can cause muscle fatigue, making it difficult to perform tasks. 
• Hearing loss. WBV can damage the eardrums and cause hearing loss to workers. 

• Cardiovascular problems. WBV has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart disease and stroke. 

Reduce the risk of WBV-related injuries: 

• Using vibration-reducing equipment. There are several vibration-reducing seats and cabs available that can be used to reduce the exposure to WBV. 
• Taking breaks. Workers should take breaks from WBV-producing activities every 20-30 minutes to allow their bodies to rest. 
• Using personal protective equipment (PPE). PPE, such as gloves and ear protection, can help to reduce the risk of WBV-related injuries. 

• Training workers on the risks of WBV. Workers should be trained on the risks of WBV and how to protect themselves. 

By following the above steps, employers and workers can help to reduce the risk of WBV-related injuries. 

The iProtectU health and safety software provides: 

• An inspection and Audit App which allows for safety inspection of the workplace and associated report 
• eLearning on vibration exposure in the workplace 

• Scheduling functionality for managers to send eLearning, risk assessments and documents out to all staff via the software with tracks completion and compliance 
• Risk assessment template covering vibration risks 
• Management system to document control the policy on vibration at work 
• Method Statement module for the creation of work activity working instructions 
• Legal register that provides legislation guidance on vibration exposure at work 

• Incident investigation module that tracks incidents involving vibration both with an app and via desktop 
• Hazard observation app where staff can report and record any concerns regarding vibration to the organisation 
• Asset management App ensuring assets are recorded in the software