Whole Body Vibration Testing in the Workplace
Our Complete WBV Testing Solution
Whole Body Vibration in the Workplace
Our Complete WBV Testing Solution
Whole Body Vibration in the Workplace
Our Complete WBV Testing Solution
Understanding Whole Body Vibration Testing
Whole Body Vibration (WBV) testing is a technique employed to evaluate the impact of vibrations that are transmitted via the seat or feet of employees who operate mobile machinery or other work vehicles across uneven and rough surfaces. This significant aspect of their job can lead to health risks, including back pain, due to large shocks and jolts.
Our Offerings: We provide a comprehensive Whole Body Vibration (WBV) testing service that spans nationwide and caters to various industries such as construction, agriculture, mining, quarrying, ground maintenance, ports, authorities, and local councils. Our real-time testing of equipment and plant vehicles under working conditions aids in identifying processes that pose high risk.
Measurement Methodology: The measurement of whole body vibration is carried out using an accelerometer placed within a seat pad. The seat pad vibrates in sync with the equipment operated by the worker. The three plane vectors are measured in the x, y & z coordinates and averaged to ascertain the levels of Whole Body Vibration.
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What does the law say regarding WBV?
Exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) poses a significant health risk, especially for workers who operate mobile machinery or other vehicles over uneven terrain as part of their daily duties. The Vibration Regulations law mandates that employers must manage and mitigate WBV exposure risks to their employees.
The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 has set an exposure action value of 0.5 m/s² A(8). When this level is reached, employers are required to implement technical and organisational measures to minimise exposure.
This regulation is particularly pertinent to employers in sectors such as agriculture, construction, forestry, mining and quarrying where the risk of WBV is high. Risks may also be present in settings where industrial trucks are used for material transportation, such as factories, depots, warehouses and docks – especially if the ground conditions are poor or if drivers employ substandard techniques.
Employers are encouraged to engage in dialogue with their employees and inspect their vehicles for potential vibration issues. If a problem is identified, the vibration regulations can serve as a protective measure for workers.
Health Risk of WBV
Exposure to whole-body vibration (WBV) can result in a variety of health issues, especially when the exposure is prolonged. The primary health risks linked to WBV are:
- Musculoskeletal disorders: These mainly impact the lower back, neck, and shoulders.
- Lower back pain: This could be a result of damage to the vertebrae and discs or ligaments that have become loose due to shaking.
- Motion sickness.
- Bone damage.
- Varicose veins or heart conditions: These can develop as a result of changes in blood pressure caused by vibration.
- Herniated discs and premature degeneration of the spine: The risk for these conditions increases with high WBV exposure.
It’s crucial to highlight that these risks are particularly significant for workers who operate mobile machinery or other work vehicles on rough and uneven surfaces as a significant part of their work. As such, it is recommended that employers implement necessary measures to manage these risks.
Cutting-Edge Technology
We use state-of-the-art technology to measure and monitor WBV exposure. This ensures accurate data collection, which is crucial for implementing effective control measures.
Comprehensive Understanding
Our Aim is to provide information and support that enables you as a business to integrate employee surveillance in an effective method whilst minimising disruption.
Regulatory Compliance
We stay updated on the latest regulations related to WBV and ensure that all our practices are in compliance with these regulations
Detailed Reporting
After the completion of testing, we deliver a comprehensive report in both print and digital formats. The report simplifies complex measurement data and provides clear recommendations for managing vibration exposure.
Real-Time Testing
Our approach involves testing equipment and plant vehicles in the actual conditions they are used in by operatives. This method allows us to identify high-risk processes accurately and provide the most precise results.
Nationwide Service
We proudly offer our services across the country, serving a wide range of sectors such as construction, agriculture, mining, quarrying, ground maintenance, ports, authorities, and local councils, among others.