A study by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has found that retro-fitting equipment to reduce hand-arm vibration rarely works.
In a detailed report the HSE selected four types of device for laboratory investigation: anti-vibration handles, spring balances/tensioners, a vibration reducing flange and chisel sleeves.
Worryingly researchers found that with the exception of chisel sleeves, an end user cannot be confident that their chosen retrofit device will in fact reduce vibration and in turn reduce exposure.
Indeed, the exact opposite may be true as retrofitting a device can have an affect on the the machine itself.
In its conclusion the report said: "A retrofit device may affect the dynamics of a machine which can change the vibration levels in unpredictable ways.
"If retrofit devices are not used with the machines for which they were intended, they should be applied with caution.
"Advice to end users should emphasise the need to speak to their suppliers to determine what, if any, retrofit devices are suitable for their equipment."
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