CREOD held a workshop in November 2006 to bring together key clinicians and researchers from across the country, to discuss current knowledge of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome, and to develop recommendations for improved recognition of the syndrome. The workshop was jointly funded by CREOD and the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. The 27 participants come from backgrounds in medicine, nursing, physiotherapy, occupational hygiene, health administration, and related disciplines. They work in various settings, including government and provincial compensation boards, universities and industry.
A new classification of the health effects associated with the use of vibrating tools was discussed, which should lead to improved diagnosis. It was agreed that the research agenda for HAVS, while trying to advance understanding of the clinical spectrum of HAVS and its measurement, should also focus on applied research of educational programs and KTE. To help to achieve these goals, the participants agreed to work together to advance understanding and recognition of this problem, with a strong focus on prevention.
The proposed classification of health effects will place HAVS into an expanded clinical sphere so that the full spectrum of health problems experienced by workers using vibrating tools might be considered. Our hope is that this will promote increased knowledge and prevention of this syndrome. In 2007, Dr. House and colleagues presented the findings of the workshop and the classification system at The 11th International Conference on Hand-Arm Vibration held in Bologna, Italy.
Read the meeting summary here: CREOD HAVS Workshop Summary (PDF)