5.2 Vibration

Written by Imran Qureshi (NEBOSH)

NEBOSH IGC · Workplace hazards · 15 questions

Name: ____________________ Date: ____________

Hand-arm vibration syndrome mainly affects:
- A The liver
- B Blood vessels, nerves and joints in the hands
- C The ears
- D The eyes
A control for vibration is:
- A Heavier tools
- B Longer shifts
- C Limiting exposure time with rotas
- D More noise
Whole-body vibration is commonly linked to:
- A Asthma
- B Skin burns
- C Hearing loss
- D Back pain
White finger is a symptom of:
- A Hand-arm vibration syndrome
- B Radiation burns
- C Noise-induced hearing loss
- D Whole-body vibration
Which tool is a typical source of hand-arm vibration?
- A A stapler
- B A telephone
- C A desk lamp
- D A breaker or grinder
Whole-body vibration is mostly caused by:
- A Driving vehicles and machines over rough ground
- B Standing still
- C Using a keyboard
- D Using a hammer
Exposure to vibration should be assessed when:
- A Only noise is present
- B No tools are used
- C Vibrating tools are used regularly or for long periods
- D A tool is used once a year
A good control for hand-arm vibration is:
- A Using the tool longer
- B Giving heavier tools
- C Choosing low-vibration tools
- D Removing the maintenance programme
Which of these reduces exposure time?
- A More overtime
- B Rotas and planning to avoid long periods of use
- C Longer shifts
- D Using tools without breaks
Why is maintenance important in controlling vibration?
- A It makes tools heavier
- B It removes the need for risk assessment
- C It reduces the cost of PPE
- D Worn tools often vibrate more
Gloves that keep the hands warm are useful because:
- A They replace tools
- B They remove vibration completely
- C Cold can make circulation problems worse
- D They stop noise
Which control should be considered first for vibration?
- A Warning signs only
- B Longer shifts
- C Different working methods or mechanisation
- D Verbal advice only
Why do limits on vibration exposure exist?
- A To replace maintenance
- B To increase output
- C To avoid training
- D To judge whether exposure is acceptable
Health surveillance for vibration helps to:
- A Avoid assessment
- B Make tools lighter
- C Remove the tool
- D Detect early signs of damage
Which of these is a symptom of hand-arm vibration syndrome?
- A Ringing in the ears
- B Numbness or loss of feeling in the fingers
- C Stomach pain
- D Skin rash from sunlight

Answer key

1. B, 2. C, 3. D, 4. A, 5. D, 6. A, 7. C, 8. C, 9. B, 10. D, 11. C, 12. C, 13. D, 14. D, 15. B

It damages the hands and arms.
Time limits reduce exposure.
It is linked to back disorders.
It is damage to blood vessels in the hands.
Drills, grinders and breakers are typical sources.
It is linked to back pain.
Measurements are compared with limits in recognised standards.
Selection of suitable equipment lowers exposure.
Time limits are a control but not a replacement for better tools.
Good condition keeps vibration low.
They support the control but do not remove vibration.
Changing the method avoids the exposure.
Limits come from recognised standards.
Early signs of damage can lead to earlier action.
It affects nerves, blood vessels and joints in the hands.