Health & Safety

another reminder !as im sure many of you know i have had white-finger (HAVS)im currently taking Losartan once a day for circulation problems ;this is due to continual use of vibrating machinery for 7 yrs namely : hedgecutters, strimmers, chainsaws, vacuum/blowers and mowers etc. rotovators and pole pruners, and also scrub cutters , grinders and stihl saws (cutters) all vibrate .you can buy gloves which i believe can help (around £30) and taking regular rest-periods also helps. again New / Good machinery have lower vibrations levels.i have used virtually all new , good top end machinery ,well serviced. i still got HAVS though so please be aware that you are not immune to contracting this.Any insurance for loss of income/ earnings or a hospital plan may help or life-insurance if you have a family ! it has made me think of my future believe me. so just a bit of advice to those who are starting out maybe or who do not have staff to help.Many thanks Robin Ainsworthwww.gardens4u.co.uk www.lawncare-4u.co.uk

Replies

Geoff Norfolk December 15, 2009 at 8:59pm

Sorry to hear of your problems.......... on the plus side, your hands look immaculate compared to mine!!
Lawncare-4u.co.uk December 15, 2009 at 9:44pm

Gloves Geoff and plenty of them - priceless ! ;-)

Geoff Norfolk said:
Sorry to hear of your problems.......... on the plus side, your hands look immaculate compared to mine!!
Graeme @ BGS December 15, 2009 at 9:46pm

So where did your thumb go Robin? Seriously a very valid warning to all and thank you for bringing it to all of our attention.
Lawncare-4u.co.uk December 15, 2009 at 10:26pm

both thumbs are currently still on each hand ! just go a bit white ,swell up and tingly when cold and wet !!

Graeme @ BGS said:
So where did your thumb go Robin? Seriously a very valid warning to all and thank you for bringing it to all of our attention.
Lawncare-4u.co.uk October 17, 2010 at 5:12pm

in case anyone didnt read this .... / new starters?
Richard@www.seasons-garden.co.uk October 17, 2010 at 6:16pm

Had Carpal Tunnel here which is f painful.
This subject leads us back to the thread recently about not wearing gloves.
This is the time of year now when you've got to keep your hands warm and dry esp when using vibrating machinery as you're more likely to pick up these conditions with cold n wet hands.
Cesare Harradine October 17, 2010 at 7:12pm

I'm in a similar position myself. I think your problem highlights the dangers of long term exposure and injuries can creep up on you.

My back is being investigated for spinal stenosis, another problem that can creep up on you un-noticed.
- Lawncare-4u.co.uk > Cesare Harradine August 1, 2016 at 11:44pm
  
  How is your back now?
Lawncare-4u.co.uk January 22, 2013 at 10:09pm

3 years on - no drugs thankyou - im still going so far ...:)

how's the back Cesare ?
Andrew Evans January 23, 2013 at 9:13pm

We always wear basic gloves when working which must help a bit with reducing vibrations but after reading your post it really puts the risk into consideration. have orderd a couple of pairs of gel style gloves to see if they help.

How old are you robin? if you dont mind me asking. Thanks