NZCB InHouse magazine August/September 2020

Page 36

HEALTH AND SAFETY —

Bad vibrations Tools. Vehicles. Heavy equipment. They take a toll on the body. It’s a normal part of any tradie’s day – picking up the power tools or jumping in the truck and getting stuck in. It’s so normal that many of us don’t recognise the potential harm we are exposing our bodies to through the vibrations they give off. But it is something that you should start thinking about and being aware of.

How are workers harmed? Vibrations are a natural part of working on any construction site. Many of the most commonly used items give off some form of vibration. With that said, the most common ways tradies are exposed to vibrations are: • Power tools

Early warning signs We understand that for many tradies, working with vibrations is a natural and unavoidable part of the job. With that in mind, there are a few warning signs and symptoms of overexposure to keep an eye out for: • Tingling and numbness in your fingers (which can lead to disturbances to your sleep patterns – not ideal!) • Loss of feeling in your fingers • Loss of strength, both grip, and holding, in your hands • Fingers turning white and red when working in cold/ wet conditions

What you can do to manage risk

•●Trucks and machinery

It is up to everyone on-site to look out for each other. Consultation with your team should take place to make sure an environment can be created where excessive exposure to vibrations is eliminated or minimised.

• From our working surfaces being exposed to vibrations (including break or smoko areas) While these are the most common forms of exposure, the below should also be considered: • Working in cold and damp conditions

Below are simple yet effective ways to either eliminate or minimise the effects.

• Increased grip force

• Use suitable low vibration power tools where possible

• Working with power tools for extended periods of time

• Use the right tool for the job – don’t use a power tool to get the job done faster when it is not required. Enjoy the task, don’t rush • Look after your tools, trucks, and machinery – get them serviced regularly, repair any breaks or faults as soon as possible and store them properly – keep them out of the cold and rain • Avoid gripping or being too forceful with a tool • Keep your body moving and take a break if needed • Wear the correct equipment and clothing Above all else, be aware that vibrations can be extremely harmful, especially when you’re exposed for lengthy periods of time. Your best tool for minimising the effects of vibrations is to start a conversation with your boss, or your team, and put steps in place to look out for each other and your equipment.

The HazardCo Team. As your trusted safety partner, we provide you with the tools and support you need to #SortYourSafety. To find out how HazardCo can benefit your site, call us on 0800 555 339 or visit hazardco.com

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NEWS BITES

7min
pages 50-53

Easy protection of cut timber ends, with Abodo’s new Protector End Seal

1min
page 49

MiTek screw innovation

2min
page 48

Membrane refurbishment work – what’s consentable?

1min
page 47

Message from our Auckland BDM

2min
page 42

AST Trust update

1min
page 46

ITAB welcomes WITT partnership

1min
page 44

Stay safe, speak up

4min
pages 34-35

Three ways to stop playing the ‘what-if’ game

4min
pages 40-41

Why do I feel so angry?

3min
pages 38-39

Bad vibrations

2min
pages 36-37

To Corporatise, or not to Corporatise? That is the question

5min
pages 32-33

Jump in puddles

2min
page 27

Why you should be using Payment Claims

6min
pages 20-21

Updates from the Building Performance Team

4min
pages 22-23

Beyond green claims

4min
pages 24-25

OUR PEOPLE

2min
pages 28-29

Changes to tertiary education will impact the construction industry

4min
pages 30-31

Meeting your KiwiSaver obligations

2min
page 26

Halo Guarantee update

1min
page 10

Message from the Chief Executive

3min
pages 6-7

NZCB Board changes

3min
page 5

Four reasons why tech is vital post lockdown

2min
pages 18-19

Appliances at commercial prices

2min
pages 12-13

Message from the NZCB Board

2min
page 4

REVERE – submissions now open

4min
pages 16-17

Message from the Group Technical Manager

2min
pages 8-9
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