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Hand-arm vibration in snowmobile drivers

H Anttonen1, H Virokannas

  • 1Oulu Regional Institute of Occupational Health, Finland.

Arctic Medical Research
|January 1, 1994
PubMed
Summary
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Snowmobile use significantly increases the risk of white finger attacks and hand numbness in reindeer herders. Vibration exposure from snowmobiles requires technical improvements and protective measures to mitigate these health risks.

Area of Science:

  • Occupational Health
  • Ergonomics
  • Environmental Health

Background:

  • Hand-arm vibration (HAV) is a known occupational hazard.
  • Reindeer herders utilize snowmobiles as essential tools in their work.
  • Previous research indicates potential links between snowmobile use and vibration-related disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To quantify hand-arm vibration exposure from snowmobiles.
  • To determine the prevalence of white finger syndrome and hand numbness among reindeer herders using snowmobiles.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of current standards in predicting vibration-related health risks.

Main Methods:

  • Vibration measurements were taken on snowmobile handlebars (N=29).
  • A postal inquiry assessed symptoms in reindeer herders (N=2,705), with a dedicated snowmobile user group (N=334).

Related Experiment Videos

  • Prevalence of symptoms was compared between snowmobile users and controls, and risk was assessed using ISO 5349 standards.

    • Main Results:

    • The frequency-weighted acceleration of snowmobile vibration was measured at 3.5 m/s2.
    • In the snowmobile user group, 18% reported white finger attacks and 48% reported hand numbness.
    • The age-adjusted prevalence of white finger syndrome was over three times higher in snowmobile users compared to controls.

    Conclusions:

    • Snowmobile operation poses a significant risk for developing white finger syndrome and hand numbness.
    • Vibration levels and their health effects align with predictions from the ISO 5349 standard.
    • Improvements in snowmobile design (motor mounting, steering yoke), work practices, and protective measures are crucial to reduce vibration exposure and associated health issues.