OCC/Physical Health/TBT-OCC-034
Whole Body Vibration (WBV) Awareness
Occupational Health › Physical Health › Whole Body Vibration (WBV) Awareness
Toolbox Talk
Whole Body Vibration (WBV) Awareness
Whole body vibration is transmitted through the seat or platform of vehicles and plant such as dumpers, rollers, excavators, and bulldozers. Long-term exposure causes lower back pain, spinal degeneration, and digestive disorders. Unlike hand-arm vibration which affects the extremities, WBV targets the spine and internal organs. This talk explains the risks, the exposure limits, and how to reduce WBV exposure on site.
Key Hazards
Chronic lower back pain and spinal disc degeneration from long-term WBV exposure
Aggravation of existing back conditions by sustained vibration during plant operation
Digestive and circulatory disorders linked to prolonged whole body vibration
Operators unaware of cumulative exposure because WBV effects develop gradually
Control Measures
- Assess the vibration magnitude of each machine and calculate the maximum daily driving time.
- Use plant with suspension seats and cab isolation systems to reduce vibration transmitted to the operator.
- Maintain haul roads and site surfaces to reduce jolting and impact loading during plant travel.
- Rotate operators between high-vibration and low-vibration tasks to limit individual exposure time.
- Adjust seat height, position, and suspension settings correctly before operating any machine.
- Avoid driving plant at excessive speed over rough ground as this amplifies vibration levels significantly.
- Ensure regular maintenance of seat suspension and cab mounting systems to maintain effectiveness.
- Report any persistent lower back pain or discomfort to your supervisor and occupational health.
- Attend health surveillance where the risk assessment identifies you as above the exposure action value.
Remember
- Assess vibration magnitude and calculate maximum daily driving time for each machine operated
- Use suspension seats and cab isolation systems to reduce vibration reaching the operator
- Maintain haul roads and site surfaces to reduce jolting and impact during plant travel
- Rotate operators between high and low vibration tasks to limit individual daily exposure
- Avoid excessive speed on rough ground as this significantly amplifies vibration levels
- Report persistent lower back pain to your supervisor and attend health surveillance appointments
Applicable Legislation: Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 · PUWER 1998
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