[An evaluation of the vibration hazard of the hand-operated machines used in automobile manufacture].

After the examination and hygienic assessment of 53 types of hand-held Soviet and foreign machines, 30 types of them were selected because according to their vibration and ergonomic characteristics they could be recommended for wide application in automotive industry. Some causes for deterioration of vibration characteristics of hand-held machines while they were in use were analyzed. Among the basic causes there were untimely running, preventive repair and vibration parameters control of the machines and also their mishandling. Introduction of the proposed pattern of machine movement and maintenance during their use could further the improvement of the technical state of hand-held machines and decrease of local vibration levels affecting workers.