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Hand-arm vibration syndrome among travertine workers: a follow up study
M Bovenzi1, A Franzinelli, L Scattoni
1Institute of Occupational Health, University of Trieste, Italy.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine
|June 1, 1994
Summary
This study shows that hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) symptoms, like vibration-induced white finger (VWF), tend to be irreversible in stoneworkers. Continued exposure increases VWF risk, highlighting the need for preventive measures.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Medicine
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
Background:
- Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is a significant occupational health concern for workers using vibrating tools.
- Stoneworkers are at high risk due to prolonged exposure to high-vibration tools like rock drills and stone hammers.
- Previous studies have indicated potential long-term effects of vibration exposure, but reversibility of symptoms remains a key question.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term effects and potential reversibility of HAVS symptoms in stoneworkers over a six-year follow-up period.
- To assess the progression of vibration-induced white finger (VWF) and sensorineural disturbances in active versus ex-stoneworkers.
- To evaluate the impact of continued vibration exposure on the development of new VWF cases.
Main Methods:
- A six-year follow-up study (1985-1991) involving 62 stoneworkers in travertine quarries and mills.
- Clinical examinations and cold provocation tests were repeated using identical procedures for initial and follow-up assessments.
- Participants were categorized into active stoneworkers and ex-stoneworkers with varying vibration-free intervals.
Main Results:
- A 38% onset of new vibration-induced white finger (VWF) cases was observed in active stoneworkers (p < 0.01).
- Among retired stoneworkers with VWF, symptoms largely remained stationary or deteriorated, with minimal recovery or improvement.
- Active stoneworkers showed delayed finger rewarming times, and ex-stoneworkers retained abnormal cold provocation responses, suggesting persistent VWF and sensorineural effects.
Conclusions:
- Symptoms of HAVS, particularly VWF, show a tendency towards irreversibility even after cessation of exposure, especially with prolonged past exposure.
- Continued use of vibrating tools significantly increases the risk of developing new VWF cases.
- Urgent implementation of preventive measures is crucial in the stone industry to mitigate the long-term health consequences of hand-arm vibration exposure.