U.S. General Services Administration
New Tools on Schedule to Prevent Workers from Suffering Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome
Post filed in: Federal Acquisition Service
GSA’s Integrated Facilities Management and Industrial Products Solutions (IFMIPS) Acquisition Center, in partnership with the Department of Defense, has launched a new vibration-controlled tools offering to help in the prevention of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). HAVS is the term for medical symptoms caused by the use of vibrating tools and machinery, including hearing loss and issues that can affect hands, arms or fingers.
The quieter, ergonomic, handheld and vibration-controlled power tools in this offering have limits to their maximum vibrations under certain conditions of use. This vibration performance has been tested and documented according to SAE Safety Standard AS6228 — Safety Requirements for Procurement, Maintenance and Use of Handheld Powered Tools.
“GSA has already identified several national stock numbers (NSN) in which suppliers warrant a maximum vibration threshold and are prepared to document testing and performance information,” said GSA IFMIPS Engineering Chief Randall Schober. “We’ll continue working with the Naval Safety Center Liaison Office, our suppliers, and the Department of Defense safety community to identify and offer vibration-controlled tools through the GSA supply system.”
Tools developed to reduce vibration often see improved performance in other areas — such as longer life spans, improved ergonomics and lower noise levels.
Vibration-controlled items — like pneumatic crimping tools, drills, grinders, sanders and wrenches — can be ordered through GSA Supply or GSA Advantage using Federal Standard Requisitioning and Issue Procedures (FEDSTRIP) or Military Standard Requisitioning and Issue Procedures (MILSTRIP). Assistance with placing orders is available Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. EST, by calling 800-525-8027.
Visit the Acquisition Gateway and navigate to the “Tools and Hardware” hallway for comprehensive information regarding all tools and hardware acquisition. For service or delivery problems, contact GSA’s National Customer Service Center at 800-488-3111.