Proceedings

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Delphi Study to Address a Number of Issues Relating to the Practical Management of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in the Workplace

by

,

,

,

,

,

,

and

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086043 - 17 May 2023

Abstract

A Delphi study has been undertaken to address eight specific areas relating to the management of hand-arm vibration syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome, with the aim of providing consensus guidelines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Hand-Arm Vibration Exposure Assessment for a Case-Control Study among German Workers

by

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

,

Christian van den Berg

and

Nastaran Raffler

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086041 - 17 May 2023

Abstract

In order to analyse the exposure-response relationship between hand–arm-vibration exposure and the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of upper extremities in an epidemiological case-control study, a database was established to provide technical characteristics such as vibration exposure data and its frequency component measured [...] Read more.

In order to analyse the exposure-response relationship between hand–arm-vibration exposure and the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of upper extremities in an epidemiological case-control study, a database was established to provide technical characteristics such as vibration exposure data and its frequency component measured at workplaces. This hand-arm vibration database consists of over 730 technical tools and devices, whereas 422 devices were used for exposure assessment in the epidemiological case-control study. The devices used were divided into a total of 13 device groups: hammers, grinding machines, compactors, screwdrivers and saws were the most frequently used devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Review of the Prediction Methods for Landslide Runout

by

Muge Pinar Komu

,

Hakan Ahmet Nefeslioglu

and

Candan Gokceoglu

Proceedings 2023, 87(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/IECG2022-14604 - 16 May 2023

Abstract

Shallow landslides, which are generally triggered by extreme precipitation events, are increasingly becoming common in the world. Societies have had difficulty in keeping up with the exponentially rising rate of shallow landslides in recent years. Despite the considerable progress made in engineering studies, [...] Read more.

Shallow landslides, which are generally triggered by extreme precipitation events, are increasingly becoming common in the world. Societies have had difficulty in keeping up with the exponentially rising rate of shallow landslides in recent years. Despite the considerable progress made in engineering studies, shallow landslides continue to cause considerable damage in different areas of the planet. Therefore, runout analyses are becoming more and more popular ways of building resilience to the negative effects of shallow landslides. Runout analyses are such crucial parts of shallow landslide studies that researchers have been keen to contribute to the existing knowledge on the subject. Earlier research suggested that runout analyses can be studied with empirical–statistical and numerical methods. Although there exist numerous landslide runout studies related to empirical–statistical and numerical solutions, we had not encountered a comparison of empirical–statistical and numerical methods’ advantages and disadvantages in the literature. This research presents an evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages of the runout analysis methods. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by

Farid Abdallah

,

Vladimir Simovic

and

Marcelle de la Roche

Proceedings 2023, 85(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023085039 - 08 May 2023

Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Proceedings, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International Scientific Conference on Digital Transformation in Business: Challenges and New Opportunities)

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Using an Impact Wrench in Different Postures—An Analysis of Awkward Hand–Arm Posture and Vibration

by

Nastaran Raffler

,

Thomas Wilzopolski

and

Christian Freitag

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086040 - 26 Apr 2023

Abstract

Overhead work and awkward hand–arm posture can impact muscle load. Additional workloads such as hand–arm vibration exposure while carrying or holding a power tool can contribute to adverse health effects. This study investigated the posture and muscle activity of 11 subjects while using [...] Read more.

Overhead work and awkward hand–arm posture can impact muscle load. Additional workloads such as hand–arm vibration exposure while carrying or holding a power tool can contribute to adverse health effects. This study investigated the posture and muscle activity of 11 subjects while using an impact wrench in three working directions: upwards, forwards, and downwards. Although the vibration exposure did not show notable differences in the magnitude (4.6 ± 0.2 m/s²), postural behaviour and muscle activity showed higher workloads for working upwards and downwards compared to forwards. The results of muscle activity, and the self-reported exposure level, highlight the necessity of considering posture while exposed to vibration exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Using an Impact Wrench in Different Working Directions—An Analysis of the Individual Forces

by

Thomas Wilzopolski

,

Nastaran Raffler

and

Christian Freitag

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086039 - 25 Apr 2023

Abstract

When working in different directions, factors such as awkward postures can lead to different physical stresses, which can have an influence on the effects of hand–arm vibrations. In this regard, the individual forces can have an influence on the hand–arm-vibration (HAV). In this [...] Read more.

When working in different directions, factors such as awkward postures can lead to different physical stresses, which can have an influence on the effects of hand–arm vibrations. In this regard, the individual forces can have an influence on the hand–arm-vibration (HAV). In this context, a force plate can be used to determine the feed force. In the case of different working directions, the measured values determined in this way can lead to misinterpretations if the force direction is not considered correctly. Within the scope of the study, screwdriving activities were carried out using an impact wrench in different working directions by 5 test subjects. In addition to the HAV, the feed force, body posture and muscle activity were recorded and evaluated. The results showed that there was a significantly different load for similar HAV. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparison of Daily Transaction Performance of Indonesia Stock Exchange against Singapore, Thailand, and Philippines Stock Exchanges during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by

Dede Suryanto

and

Nunny Chania Wardah

Proceedings 2022, 83(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2022083070 - 21 Apr 2023

Abstract

This study aims to determine the performance of daily transactions in the Indonesia Stock Exchange during the COVID-19 pandemic against those in other ASEAN countries such as Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines. This research is conducted against the background of the COVID-19 global [...] Read more.

This study aims to determine the performance of daily transactions in the Indonesia Stock Exchange during the COVID-19 pandemic against those in other ASEAN countries such as Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines. This research is conducted against the background of the COVID-19 global pandemic that has affected stock exchanges across all countries in the world. The results of this research confirm those of several other studies that state that the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced the performance of stock exchanges in several countries in the world. The research method used in this study involves a descriptive quantitative approach with a random sampling technique on four stock exchanges from four ASEAN countries, namely Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines, with 2017–2020 as the observation period. The results showed that at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the four countries responded positively to the impact of COVID-19, which resulted in a decrease in the value of daily transactions. However, not long after Q2, all exchanges slowly experienced a recovery, and even the Indonesia Stock Exchange recorded the highest growth in transaction value in the last 20 years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 5th International Conference on Vocational Education Applied Science and Technology 2022)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Daily Exposure to Hand-Arm Vibration of Technicians in Wastewater Treatment Plants and After-Sales Service

by

Rémi Petitfour

,

Guenaëlle Ducrot

and

Isabelle Jannin Devilleneuve

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086038 - 21 Apr 2023

Abstract

This study encompasses two implementations of evaluation of the daily exposure to hand-arm vibration of employees. The first one focuses on maintenance technicians and operating agents in wastewater treatment plants and as network technicians on the water distribution network. The second one focuses [...] Read more.

This study encompasses two implementations of evaluation of the daily exposure to hand-arm vibration of employees. The first one focuses on maintenance technicians and operating agents in wastewater treatment plants and as network technicians on the water distribution network. The second one focuses on technicians in the after-sales service of a company supplying a wide range of percussive and vibrating portable tools for professionals and the general public. In both cases, we established a precise inventory of the tools used by the employees, and computed the duration of use per day of each tool. We used the INRS tools N43 “Calculette Vibrations Mains Bras” and N59 “OSEV—Vibrations transmises aux membres supérieurs” to determine the daily exposure A(8). These results were explained to the employees, with practical advice for prevention, collectively during meetings and individually during sensitization workshops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Neurological Impairment from Hand–Arm Vibration Exposure

by

Oscar Lundberg

,

Ing-Liss Bryngelsson

and

Per Vihlborg

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086037 - 20 Apr 2023

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate symtom of neurological impairment from occupational hand-arm vibration using a job exposure matrix. The result shows that paresthesia are significantly higher amongst individuals with a cumulative occupational vibration exposure over 9.08 m/s². Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Interference of Vibration Exposure in the Force Production of the Hand–Arm System

by

,

,

,

,

and

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086036 - 20 Apr 2023

Abstract

The authors evaluated the short-term neuromuscular effects on the assessment of mechanical hand—arm systems induced by vibrating tools to investigate the relationship between the force exerted and the vibration exposure. The motor task consisted of holding the instrumented handle with the dominant hand [...] Read more.

The authors evaluated the short-term neuromuscular effects on the assessment of mechanical hand—arm systems induced by vibrating tools to investigate the relationship between the force exerted and the vibration exposure. The motor task consisted of holding the instrumented handle with the dominant hand at predetermined grip force values. Five subjects took part in the tests. The tests were developed in the absence of vibration and in the presence of vibration at 5 m/s², 7.5 m/s² and 10 m/s². The push and pull force values were calculated in the tests on the five subjects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Physiological Effects of Single Shocks on the Hand-Arm System—A Randomized Experiment

by

,

,

,

and

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086035 - 18 Apr 2023

Abstract

Physiological health effects (vibration perception thresholds and infrared skin temperature) of single-impact exposures and vibration exposures have been evaluated. In this experiment, a total of 52 healthy male participants were randomly exposed to single shocks of different frequencies (1 s⁻¹, 4 [...] Read more.

Physiological health effects (vibration perception thresholds and infrared skin temperature) of single-impact exposures and vibration exposures have been evaluated. In this experiment, a total of 52 healthy male participants were randomly exposed to single shocks of different frequencies (1 s⁻¹, 4 s⁻¹, and 20 s⁻¹) and to random signal vibration exposures (4 × 5 min exposure duration). We observed frequency-dependent and eventually dose-dependent physiological effects. No exposure parameter systematically correlated to any of the examined physiological outcomes. This could hint at different pathways for physiological effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparison between the Biomechanical Responses of the Hand and Foot When Exposed to Vertical Vibration

by

,

,

,

,

,

and

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086034 - 18 Apr 2023

Abstract

Workers can be exposed daily to foot-transmitted vibration (FTV) from standing on mobile equipment or vibrating platforms and surfaces. This results in a consistent risk of developing neurological, vascular, and musculoskeletal problems. To date, there are no international standards describing procedures with which [...] Read more.

Workers can be exposed daily to foot-transmitted vibration (FTV) from standing on mobile equipment or vibrating platforms and surfaces. This results in a consistent risk of developing neurological, vascular, and musculoskeletal problems. To date, there are no international standards describing procedures with which to evaluate the health risks deriving from long-term exposure to FTV. To study the applicability of hand–arm vibration (HAV) standards to the foot, the biomechanical responses of the hand and foot in terms of the frequency response function upon varying contact conditions were compared. Results evidenced similarities between the responses of the wrist and ankle, with differences in resonance for the fingers and toes. The study confirms that HAV standards are more suitable than whole-body vibration standards for evaluating higher frequency exposure to FTV. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Vibration Reduction of Pneumatic Rock Drill for Rock Face Stabilisation Sector

by

Hans Lindell

,

Thomas Clemm

and

Snævar Leó Grétarsson

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086033 - 18 Apr 2023

Abstract

Workers in the rock face stabilisation sector are exposed to high levels of vibration from pneumatic rock drills, which can lead to vibration injuries. The work situation is also ergonomically challenging since the work often is performed on steep cliffs with heavy equipment [...] Read more.

Workers in the rock face stabilisation sector are exposed to high levels of vibration from pneumatic rock drills, which can lead to vibration injuries. The work situation is also ergonomically challenging since the work often is performed on steep cliffs with heavy equipment and a substantial degree of dust exposure. To reduce exposure to vibrations, the equipment has been redesigned, including the machine’s handle, feeding hoist and the implementation of a reciprocating mass generating a counter force to reduce the vibrations. As a side project, a dust removal device was also developed. It was shown that vibration and dust exposure can be substantially reduced. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Study on Approaches for Reducing the Vibration Exposure of Hand-Helded Golf Club Heads Grinding

by

,

,

,

,

,

and Shijie Hu

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086032 - 17 Apr 2023

Abstract

To control vibration-induced white finger among workers performing the fine grinding of golf club heads, in this study, the influence of different factors on vibration acceleration were verified by adjusting the eccentric mass of different dynamic balance wheels, adjusting the angle of driving [...] Read more.

To control vibration-induced white finger among workers performing the fine grinding of golf club heads, in this study, the influence of different factors on vibration acceleration were verified by adjusting the eccentric mass of different dynamic balance wheels, adjusting the angle of driving wheels and passive wheels, increasing the number of rubber cushions, and using new and old sand belts. This study determined that the eccentric mass of the dynamic balance wheel, the number of rubber pads, and the newness of the sand belt are significant factors affecting the vibration of workers. The vibration hazard posed to workers can be reduced by correcting the dynamic balance of the front wheel, increasing the amount of rubber pads, and replacing the type of sand belt with a newer one. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Radiographic Hand Osteoarthritis in Relation to Exposure to Hand-Transmitted Vibration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by

,

,

and

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086031 - 17 Apr 2023

Abstract

This systematic review on radiographic hand osteoarthritis (HOA) covering publications in the databases Medline and Embase for the period 1947 to April 2021, with a final selection of 10 studies, revealed a high prevalence of hand osteoarthritis among both vibration-exposed men and non-exposed. [...] Read more.

This systematic review on radiographic hand osteoarthritis (HOA) covering publications in the databases Medline and Embase for the period 1947 to April 2021, with a final selection of 10 studies, revealed a high prevalence of hand osteoarthritis among both vibration-exposed men and non-exposed. The results show a non-significant, unadjusted risk-increase of about 50% for X-ray-diagnosed hand osteoarthritis for those who work with vibrating machinery compared to referents. The risk estimate does not provide reliable support that working with exposure from vibrating machines increases the risk of radiographic changes in the hands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Dupuytren’s Disease in Relation to the Exposure to Hand-Transmitted Vibration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by

,

,

and

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086030 - 17 Apr 2023

Abstract

This systematic review covering publications in the Medline and Embase databases for the period 1946 to 2020 revealed a higher prevalence of Dupuytren’s disease among men exposed to vibration compared to men not exposed to vibration. The risk assessment, also considering the risk [...] Read more.

This systematic review covering publications in the Medline and Embase databases for the period 1946 to 2020 revealed a higher prevalence of Dupuytren’s disease among men exposed to vibration compared to men not exposed to vibration. The risk assessment, also considering the risk of bias, corresponded to a roughly doubled risk of Dupuytren’s disease when working with vibrating machines. The supplementary meta-analysis confirmed a more than doubled risk. A possible exposure–response relation was supported by the result from the meta-analysis, which showed a doubled risk for high exposure relative to low exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Definition and Quantification of Shock/Peak/Transient Vibration

by

Hans Lindell

,

Pontus Johannisson

and

Snævar Leó Grétarsson

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086029 - 14 Apr 2023

Abstract

Vibration injury in the hand–arm system from hand-held machines is one of the most common occupational health injuries. Machines emitting high-frequency shock vibrations, e.g., impact wrenches have since long been identified as a special risk factor. In legislative and standard texts, the terms [...] Read more.

Vibration injury in the hand–arm system from hand-held machines is one of the most common occupational health injuries. Machines emitting high-frequency shock vibrations, e.g., impact wrenches have since long been identified as a special risk factor. In legislative and standard texts, the terms shock, impact, peak and transient vibration are frequently used to underline the special risks associated with these kinds of vibrations. Despite this fact, in the literature there is not a mathematically stringent definition of either shock vibration or how the amplitude of the shock is defined. In this study, we suggest algorithms for definition and quantification of these terms and apply them to machine vibrations of various kinds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Biomarkers in Patients with Hand-Arm Vibration Injury Entailing Raynaud’s Phenomenon and Cold Sensitivity, Compared to Referents

by

,

,

,

,

,

and

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086027 - 14 Apr 2023

Abstract

The clinical evaluation of patients with neurosensory injury is based on quantitative sensory testing. Such tests require the patient’s cooperation, which may sometimes hinder a correct diagnosis. Objective findings, e.g., with biomarkers, would therefore be valuable. We evaluated serum biomarkers of vascular and [...] Read more.

The clinical evaluation of patients with neurosensory injury is based on quantitative sensory testing. Such tests require the patient’s cooperation, which may sometimes hinder a correct diagnosis. Objective findings, e.g., with biomarkers, would therefore be valuable. We evaluated serum biomarkers of vascular and neural injury in 92 patients with vibration injuries and in 64 referents. Thrombomodulin (TM), a biomarker for endothelial damage, was elevated in HAVS patients with Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP) compared to those without, as it also was in comparison to the referents. In the patients without RP, those with increased cold sensitivity showed somewhat higher—but not significantly different—values of TM (p = 0.4) than those without increased cold sensitivity, indicating an endothelial dysfunction or injury. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Determination of the Number of Measurements Required for 95% Confidence in an Upper Quartile Value of Hand-Arm Vibration Measurement Using the Monte-Carlo Method

by

Paul Pitts

Proceedings 2023, 86(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2023086021 - 14 Apr 2023

Abstract

The objective of this simulation was to determine the number of measured data sets that will provide an acceptable estimate of the upper quartile hand-arm vibration value for real use of a power tool. Monte Carlo simulations were performed based on the analysis [...] Read more.

The objective of this simulation was to determine the number of measured data sets that will provide an acceptable estimate of the upper quartile hand-arm vibration value for real use of a power tool. Monte Carlo simulations were performed based on the analysis of data sets from the HSE’s hand-arm vibration database. The simulation used random uniform distribution to generate simulated machine data sets. The simulations showed that for practical measurements, a sample size of between 20 and 30 measurements is likely to achieve a reliable estimate of the upper quartile value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 15th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Description

Proceedings

Vol. 86

ICHAV 2023

Vol. 85

DTB 2022

Vol. 84

MTM 2022

Vol. 83

ICVEAST

Vol. 82

IASSC 2022

Vol. 81

IS4SI 2021

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI