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810 Hand and Power Tool Safety
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Raynaud's Disease

Raynaud’s (pronounced ray-nose) Disease comes in two forms: Limited blood flow and vibration.

Limited blood flow: The primary form of Raynaud's Disease may not have a cause, but it believed to be a disorder that limits blood flow in the extremities, usually in response to cold temperatures or stress.

Example of white finger syndrome
Notice how the fingers appear to be lighter in color, or "white" due to the lack of blood reaching the surface.

The blood vessels narrow so the blood can’t get to the surface of the skin and the affected areas turn white and blue.

Vibration: The secondary form is called Vibration White Finger Syndrome, sometimes called Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is caused by repeated use of hand-held vibrating tools - for example, power drills, chainsaws and pneumatic drills. It may also be caused by holding or working with machinery that vibrates.

Symptoms can be identified before they become too serious. Look for the following symptoms if you have used vibrating tools for a long time without protection.

White Finger Syndrome - Dan Clark
  • Tingling and numbness in the fingers
  • Losing a sense of feeling in the fingers
  • Loss of strength in your hands
  • Your fingers going white then red in the cold

If you don't do anything to prevent Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome, then you put yourself at a greater risk of developing serious conditions related to touch, feeling, speed and control in your hands.

To help prevent this condition, limit the use of vibrating tools and wear anti-vibration gloves.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-8. What causes vibration white finger syndrome?