P-391 Evaluation of the Vibrational Environments of the Hand-Arm System in a Worker Assembling Metal Structures

Introduction Musculoskeletal disorders are widely found among workers exposed to vibrations. The objective of our study is to identify and measure the vibrations of the hand-arm system encountered during the assembly of metal structures among a worker in an industrial company in Morocco as well as to evaluate their possible harmful effects on health. Method This metrological study was measuring the vibrations of the hand-arm system in a male worker who manipulates a drill and a bolter for the assembly of metal structures serving as support for the storage of pallets within an industrial company in Morocco. The study was using a hand-arm system sensor connected to an analyzer respectively when handling the two machines. Results When handling the wrench, the weighted equivalent acceleration Ahv was of the order of 3.39 m/s² while the daily exposure level Ahv(8) was 0.91 m/s². When handling the perforator, the weighted equivalent acceleration Ahv was of the order of 9.35 m/s² while the daily exposure level Ahv (8) was 3.81 m/s². The daily exposure level relative to the sum of the two Ahvt devices was 3.91 m/s². Discussion and conclusion The exposure level observed with the perforator exceeds the permitted values requiring a reduction in handling time. Corrective technical and organizational measures must be immediately put in place to prevent the occurrence of harmful effects of vibrations on health. The role of the occupational physician and the multidisciplinary team is of great importance in carrying out preventive actions.