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Vibration hazard
Hand-arm vibration (HAV)
Exposure to HAV can result in disrupted circulation in the hand and forearm and/or damage
to nerves and tendons, muscles, bones and joints of the hand and arm. It can cause a
range of conditions collectively known as hand–arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and specific
disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome, ‘tennis elbow’ and ‘vibration white finger’.
Workers with exposure to vibration while performing other hazardous manual tasks may also
experience pain in the hands and arms and diminished muscle strength.
Reducing the risk of hand-arm vibration
Normal use of the Easy Petrol Post Driver exposes the operator to vibration. Vibrations from
handheld machines are transmitted into the hands via the handles. The spring dampened
handles on the Easy Petrol Post Driver are designed to dampen a large part of the initial
vibrations. Further measures are required as vibrations are not eliminated completely.
•Christie Engineering & Easy Petrol Post Driver recommends operators/employers
implement a program of health surveillance to detect early symptoms that may
relate to vibration exposure, so that management procedures can be modified to
help prevent significant disability.
•If numbness, tingling, pain, clumsiness, weakened grip, whitening of the skin, or other
symptoms occur at any time, when operating the machine or when not operating
the machine, do not resume operating the machine and seek medical attention.
•Let the tool do the job. Use a firm, but minimum hand grip, consistent with proper
control and safe operation.
•When the impact mechanism is activated, the only body contact with the Post Driver
should be hands on the spring dampened handles. Avoid any other contact, e.g.
supporting any part of the body against the machine or leaning onto the machine
trying to increase the feed force.
•Never keep the trigger engaged while removing the Post Driver from the post.
•Immediately stop working if the machine suddenly starts to vibrate strongly. Before
resuming the work, find and remedy the cause of the increased vibrations.
Service and Maintenance
Read these Safety and Operating Instructions carefully and ensure
maintenance and servicing are completed according with requirements.
Perform engine maintenance in accordance with the supplied Honda Owner’s
Manual GX35.
•Regular maintenance is a prerequisite for keeping the machine safe and effective.
•If parts are damaged or worn, immediately cease using the Post Driver until they have
been serviced or replaced.
•Replace worn components in good time. When cleaning mechanical parts with
solvent, make sure to comply with occupational health and safety regulations, and
make sure that there is satisfactory ventilation. Ensure PPE such as respiratory mask,
gloves, and safety glasses are worn, and the manufacturer supplied Safety Data
Sheet (SDS) for the solvent used is read and understood.
