Letters: Some frims are providing good vibration statistics

Sir,
With reference to your article 'Testing Times' on vibration data relating to hand tools (CJ 17 January 2007), semi-quantitive risk assessments are always a problem for the end user. This is due to the lack of productivity data in relation to exposure times (exposure times that I believe are taken while the item being tested is suspended in mid-air).

However, we recently attended a Hilti HAV seminar where guidance was aimed far more at the holes per hour approach (dependent on bit diameter, hole depth, material being worked on, etc) rather than the usual exposure data we are all so used to.

It proves some manufacturers are being proactive and are offering the end-user information that allows them to compile a comprehensive risk assessment, which offers real-life data rather than what is often only ever a 'best guess'.

Dave Mee
Health & safety officer
M Lambe Construction

[Contract Journal, 7th Feburary 2007, p 7]