Vibration Tools: Hidden Risks and How to Protect Your Crew
In maritime operations, vibration tools are essential—but they come with serious health risks if not managed properly. From handheld grinders to deck scalers, prolonged exposure to vibration can lead to debilitating conditions that affect both productivity and quality of life.
🚨 The Health Risks
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is one of the most common and dangerous outcomes. It’s progressive and often irreversible, caused by frequent use of vibrating tools. Symptoms include:
Tingling and numbness in fingers
Loss of grip strength
Pain, stiffness, and white finger episodes
Increased sensitivity to cold and difficulty with fine motor tasks
Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) affects crew exposed to vibrations through seats, decks, or machinery. It can cause:
Lower back pain and spinal injuries
Fatigue, sleep disturbances, and reduced concentration
Musculoskeletal disorders and increased accident risk
📋 Regulations You Need to Know
The maritime industry is governed by strict regulations to protect workers:
ILO Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006) mandates safe working conditions and health surveillance.
EU Directive 2002/44/EC sets exposure limits: 5 m/s² for hand-arm and 1.15 m/s² for whole-body vibration over 8 hours.
UK’s Merchant Shipping Regulations (2007) and MGN 353 & 446 provide detailed compliance steps for shipowners.
🛠️ Prevention Starts with Smarter Tools
Our Vibro-Lo™ range offers a breakthrough in vibration safety:
Up to 8x lower vibration levels than conventional tools
Allows 70x longer trigger time within safe exposure limits
Designed with operator health in mind—reducing fatigue, improving safety, and maintaining productivity
Additional safety features include:
ATEX-certified tools for hazardous environments
Dust-free systems (TVS™) for cleaner working conditions
Drop protection for working at heights
✅ Best Practices for Crew Safety
To reduce health risks:
Use low-vibration tools and maintain them regularly
Rotate tasks and limit exposure time
Train crew to recognize early symptoms
Conduct regular health surveillance
Follow ISO 2631 and EU guidelines for exposure limits
Contact Us
Do you need a vibration risk calculator or just further information, feel free to contact Sales Director Jan Taudal at jt@sepcotech.com. We are here to answer any questions you may have and to help you implement the best solutions for your needs.