February is Raynaud’s Awareness Month
February is Raynaud’s Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on this often-overlooked condition affecting circulation in extremities such as fingers and toes.
For industries where workers use vibrating tools, it’s particularly important to understand the link between prolonged vibration exposure and conditions like Raynaud’s or Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), a secondary form of Raynaud’s phenomenon.
HAVS-related health conditions are irreversible and typically affect the fingers, hands, and arms. The severe effects of these permanent conditions don’t just impact an individual’s ability to work, they can also hinder daily routines and quality of life. That’s why this month; we’re emphasising the importance of properly managing the risks of Raynaud’s in your organisation.
What is Raynaud’s?
Raynaud’s phenomenon is a circulatory condition affecting up to 10 million people in the UK. It restricts blood flow to the fingers and toes, often triggered by cold temperatures or stress. Symptoms include:
- Cold, numb, or painful fingers and toes
- Colour changes in the affected area turning white, then blue/purple, and finally red upon warming
- Tingling, stinging, or throbbing pain as circulation returns
For those exposed to prolonged vibration, the risk of developing Raynaud’s and related conditions such as HAVS, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, or Dupuytren’s Contracture significantly increases.
Why Awareness Matters
Although Raynaud’s is not life-threatening, it can severely impact daily life if left unmanaged. In extreme cases, prolonged restricted blood flow can lead to sores or tissue damage.
Employers have a legal and ethical duty to manage vibration risks effectively. Proactive management of vibration exposure is essential not just to protect workers but also to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Taking Action
At HAVSPRO, we work with organisations to implement effective vibration management solutions that protect employees from conditions like HAVS and secondary Raynaud’s.
If you want to learn more about how we can support your business in reducing vibration-related risks, get in touch with us today.
Let’s use Raynaud’s Awareness Month as a reminder to prioritise worker safety and well-being.
