Power Tools - Vibration Injury to Hands

If you run a chain saw, leaf blower or rototiller for several hours without gloves, your fingers will probably feel numb or "tingly" afterwards. Repeated exposure to severe vibration can result in Raynaud's Syndrome (often called "Vibration White Finger.")

The newsletter "HORTIDEAS" reports that some power tools used by gardeners have been found to exceed standards applied to industrial workers.

Agricultural engineers at North Carolina State University recommend that padded gloves always be worn when using vibrating tools. Gloves do not provide total protection but they do significantly reduce the total energy transferred to the hands.

Frequent rest stops will also lessen the risk of damage.