Ergonomics Awareness Training for Supervisors Practice Test

What is the recommended approach to reduce the risk of white finger while using tools?

1. Increase tool speed

2. Dampen vibration transmission from the tool to the hand

3. Use tools with longer handles

4. Work in colder environments

The correct answer is: Dampen vibration transmission from the tool to the hand

The recommended approach to reduce the risk of white finger, a condition resulting from excessive exposure to hand-arm vibration, is indeed to dampen vibration transmission from the tool to the hand. This strategy is effective because white finger, or vascular disorder, is primarily caused by the constriction of blood vessels resulting from the mechanical vibrations that tools produce. When a worker uses tools that generate high levels of vibration, this can lead to significant damage over time, including reduced blood flow to the fingers and eventual numbness, pain, and loss of dexterity. By incorporating vibration-damping materials or designs into the tools, the amount of vibration transmitted to the worker's hands can be significantly minimized. This can involve using anti-vibration gloves, special tool grips, or selecting tools specifically designed to reduce vibration. Other choices, such as increasing tool speed or working in colder environments, do not address the root cause of vibration exposure and can potentially exacerbate the situation instead. Using tools with longer handles may provide a change in leverage but won't necessarily mitigate the effects of vibration on the hands. Overall, the focus on reducing vibration exposure is the most direct and effective way to protect individuals from developing white finger.