Prevalence of Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome in mine workers of Khewra salt mines.

Abstract

Background: Hand-arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a disorder caused by prolonged exposure to hand-held vibrating instruments, commonly observed in industrial contexts such as mining, construction, and manufacturing. It involves symptoms affecting the musculoskeletal, neurological, and vascular systems of the arm and hand.

Purpose: The main aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of HAVS among laborers working in the Khewra salt mines.

Study design: This study utilized a cross-sectional observational design.

Methods: A total of 140 drill machine operators from the Khewra salts mines were selected through purposive sampling. Handgrip strength was assessed using the Camry-EH101 hand dynamometer and the data was collected through structured questionnaire focusing on neurological, vascular and musculoskeletal symptoms. The prevalence of HAVS was determined from the collected data and the severity of symptoms was as analyzed across different age groups and working conditions.

Results: Out of the participants, n = 121 (86.4%) were found to be right-hand dominant, with average grip strength of 40.9 ± 3.1 kg, while n = 19 (13.6%) were left hand dominant, with average grip strength of 45.9 ± 2.6 kg. Compared to normative data, right-hand dominant workers showed a 15% reduction in grip strength, while left-hand dominant workers showed a 5% decreased. The most common reported neurological symptoms included prolonged hand vibration (52.9%), tingling sensation (60%) and numbness (46.4%). Vascular symptoms included discoloration of fingers (50%), felling cold (48.6%) and needle like sensations (45.7%). Musculoskeletal symptoms included reduced grip strength (51.4%), hand discomfort (46.4%) and hand cramping, tiredness or itching (46.4%).

Conclusion: The high prevalence of HAVS among miners emphasizes the importance of targeted clinical interventions and workplace policies modifications to reduce vibration exposure and improve occupational health.