In the industry of diamond drilling and sawing today Health and Safety plays a huge role in what can and cannot be done on site. drilltec currently operate an ongoing educational scheme delivered through toolbox talks and informal meetings with all of drilltec’s on-site operatives.

drilltec currently operate a system ensuring none of our operatives use percussion tools for longer than the HAV legislation stipulates, preventing VWF or Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome.

drilltec also risk assess each and every job to provide guidance so the operative is not exposed to excessive levels of vibrations, and also to make the contractor aware of these risks.

Alternative Methods - to eliminate the threat of vibration

Wire Sawing



Track Sawing



Brokk

Symptoms of Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome

• Pins and needles
• Pain and numbness in fingertips
• Reduced sensitivity of touch
• Painful wrists
• Damage to muscles, bones or joints

‘VWF is one of the most common reasons for occupational ill health claims made against employers’

Vibration levels can change in an instant

Depending on: Material
                      Direction of use (sidewards, downwards or upwards)
                      Diameter
                      Length
                      Age of tool
                      Service history of tool/maintenance
                      Actual handling by the operative

Upper Limit Calculator

http://www.hse.gov.uk/vibration/hav/hav.xls

Typical tool ratings: Hilti TE6           5 m/s²     
                             Hilti TE76          8 m/s²
                             Hilti TE905        8 m/s²
                             Hilti DD130        2.5 m/s²
                             Hilti DD200        2.5 m/s²
                             Hilti EC1            7 m/s²
                             Hilti DG 150       6.7 m/s²
                             Hilti DC-SE-20   3.5 m/s²
                   
Useful Links