Hand-Arm Vibration Exposure and Welding in Cold Environments - Hazards and Strategies to Control Risk

Welders are exposed to hand-arm vibration (HAV) from power tools that are commonly used in cutting, chipping, grinding, peening and other tasks. The potential health effects associated with HAV exposure include musculoskeletal, vascular and neural disorders that can become debilitating and that often go unreported or unrecognized at early stages. The combination of cold work environments and cold weather apparel can increase the risk of hand-arm vibration syndrome, vibration white finger, tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome among welders. Understanding exposure to HAV, factors that increase risk in a cold environment, early signs and symptoms of HAV-related disorders, and strategies for the prevention and monitoring of these disorders is important for maintaining the health of welders in cold environments.