30 Oct 2006
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BAE Systems employee
Operating vibrating machinery
Our Aerostructures site at Prestwick, Scotland, has developed an innovative approach to reduce health risks to employees working with vibrating machinery.
The approach – developed in partnership with other Aerostructures sites, trade unions and occupational health teams – has two main elements. First, tools that produce lower vibrations are used where possible. In some cases the design of components or production techniques are changed to eliminate vibration risks altogether.
Second, a study of the risk factors and the way individual employees use tools has enabled managers to identify vibration risk areas in the factory. When allocating work, the managers can now ensure that those employees who are at especially high risk from vibration (because of a health condition) avoid those jobs.
The initiative has been recognised by the UK Health and Safety Executive as an example of best practice.
