Vibration transferred to the fingers, thumb, hand and arm through the steering wheel can be uncomfortable to the user and may lead to symptoms such as tingling or numbness in the fingers and poor grip strength.
Material, often rubber based, can be wrapped around the steering wheel to lessen the vibration experienced.
Anti-vibration gloves can also provide protection for individuals from vibration. If considering the use of anti-vibration gloves, to ensure they are used consistently and for maximum benefit, choose a pair that; fit the user snugly whilst still allowing for maximum dexterity; are suitable in size and design for the task; are of sufficient quality that the anti-vibration padding remains in position over time; and they provide adequate grip.
A range of gloves are available:
- gloves with polyurethane air pocket style design over the palm to assist in dissipating vibration and reducing overall hand, finger and arm fatigue whilst retaining dexterity
- full length gloves with gel padded palm area and/or fingers and thumb - coming in a range of materials depending on the dexterity required such as cow hide, goats leather, spandex or insulating material for cold work environments like freezers
- half finger gloves (cut off at knuckle height) with palm gel pad
- anti-vibration glove liners for use under specialised gloves such as those for use with specific chemicals or extreme heat
- gloves with gel padded palm and thumb span, with hard protective polymer over back of knuckles for protection.
(OTB (no date specified); Sorbothane Inc. 2007)
Workplace solutions and adjustments:
If vibration is experienced through to a vehicles steering wheel whilst driving, this may cause discomfort and fatigue for the driver. Ideally it is recommended that the source of vehicle based vibration is minimised at the source i.e. at the engine, vehicle suspension or through checking tyre pressure, balance and alignment. If vibration still extends through to the steering wheel, anti-vibration wraps can be applied or specialised anti-vibration gloves worn to reduce the impact of prolonged exposure.
Relevant Links:
References:
Sorbothane Inc. 2007, Shock and Vibration Solutions, Sorbothane Inc., Ohio, Viewed 11 April 2008, <http://www.sorbothane.com/brochure_scans/brochure.pdf>.
OTB products (no date specified), Summerweight Anti-vibration Gloves, OTB Products, online, viewed 11 April 2008, <http://www.otbproducts.com.au/safety_products/summerweight_av_gloves.htm>.