Adverse health manifestations in the hands of vibration exposed carpenters - a cross sectional study

Abstract Background Despite EU regulatory standards, many workers suffer injury as a result of working with hand-held vibrating tools. Our aim this study was to confirm whether carpenters, highly exposed group, more injuries their hands than painters, group assumed be less vibration. Methods 193 carpenters (participation rate 100%) and 72 painters 67%), all men, answered questionnaire underwent clinical examination identify manifestations neural vascular origin in the hands. Neurosensory affection defined having at least one symptom fingers/hands (impaired perception touch, warmth, or cold, impaired dexterity, increased sensation numbness tingling, pain when cold) finding vibration, two-point discrimination). Logistic regression used calculate odds ratios (OR) 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results fulfilled for 31% 17% , age-adjusted OR 3.3 (CI 1.6–7.0). Among neurosensory 18% reported interference daily life activities, most common symptoms being findings were touch found 12% young (? 30 years old) . No difference prevalence white fingers between painters. Conclusions Carpenters showed probably due vibration exposure. Also signs affection, which indicates that under current conditions these companies are not protected against injury. This underlines importance reducing exposure conducting regular medical check-ups detect early indicating hand-arm injuries. Special attention should given numbness, initiating ones, addressed possible preventive sentinel process. It is also important test clinically small- large-fibre neuropathy, individual may unaware any pathology.