Abstract

Estimating the vibratory emissions of vibrating manual tools in the laboratory calls for methods that require human subjects to handle these tools under well-defined conditions. The recruitment, availability and training of these individuals, as well as the variations in the results attributable to their different biodynamic characteristics, are all factors that make such tests difficult. This report describes a project to evaluate the feasibility of using a mechanical system rather than human subjects, thus simplifying the application of the protocol for evaluating a type of percussive tool, namely chipping hammers. It appears that the tested substitution mechanism considerably reduces the variability in the test results and that it could eventually serve as an effective replacement for the current standardized test method.