Abstract
BackgroundWhole body vibration (WBV) exposure at work is common and studies found evidence that this exposure might cause low back pain (LBP). A recent review concluded there is a lack of evidence of effective strategies to reduce WBV exposure. Most research in this field is focussed on the technical implications, although changing behaviour towards WBV exposure might be promising as well. Therefore, we developed an intervention programme to reduce WBV exposure in a population of drivers with the emphasis on a change in behaviour of driver and employer. The hypothesis is that an effective reduction in WBV exposure, in time, will lead to a reduction in LBP as WBV exposure is a proxy for an increased risk of LBP.Methods/DesignThe intervention programme was developed specifically for the drivers of vibrating vehicles and their employers. The intervention programme will be based on the most important determinants of WBV exposure as track conditions, driving speed, quality of the seat, etc. By increasing knowledge and skills towards changing these determinants, the attitude, social influence and self-efficacy (ASE) of both drivers and employers will be affected having an effect on the level of exposure. We used the well-known ASE model to develop an intervention programme aiming at a change or the intention to change behaviour towards WBV exposure. The developed programme consists of: individual health surveillance, an information brochure, an informative presentation and a report of the performed field measurements.DiscussionThe study protocol described is advantageous as the intervention program actively tries to change behaviour towards WBV exposure. The near future will show if this intervention program is effective by showing a decrease in WBV exposure.
Highlights
Whole body vibration (WBV) exposure at work is common and studies found evidence that this exposure might cause low back pain (LBP)
The study protocol described is advantageous as the intervention program actively tries to change behaviour towards WBV exposure
The near future will show if this intervention program is effective by showing a decrease in WBV exposure
Summary
It has been estimated that 4 to 7% of all drivers in some European countries, the USA and Canada are exposed to potentially harmful whole body vibration (WBV). This Directive establishes minimum requirements for the protection of workers from risks to their health and safety that arise from exposure to mechanical vibration In line with this European Directive a multi-centred study, VIBRISKS, has been carried out, financed by the European Commission to prioritise research in the field of vibration exposed workers [3]. One of the objectives in this VIBRISKS study is to improve the understanding of the benefits of interventions like health surveillance by identifying factors that may result in the prevention of vibration-related symptoms or disorders To fulfil this aim, we will develop an intervention programme at the workplace by using knowledge, own experience and previously described intervention programmes aiming to reduce WBV exposure. The hypothesis is that an effective reduction in WBV exposure, in time, will lead to a reduction in LBP as WBV exposure is a proxy for an increased risk of LBP
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