I drive a forklift 8 hours a day and my whole body vibrates. What health risks does this cause?

Whole-body vibration (WBV) from driving forklifts, dump trucks, or tractors can cause: - Lower back pain and spinal damage - Sciatica-like symptoms (leg numbness, pins and needles) - Digestive problems - Damage to spinal discs Under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, your employer must assess whole-body vibration exposure, maintain seats and suspension on vehicles, provide training on correct seating position, limit continuous driving time, and provide health surveillance. Ask your employer to check the seat suspension and replace it if worn out.

I drove a forklift for 4 years and had the same back pain. Three things that helped: 1) A proper air-suspension seat — insist your employer replaces the old seat, it is their legal obligation. 2) Get off the truck every hour and stretch. 3) Core strengthening exercises — planks and dead bugs twice a day. My physiotherapist said most forklift drivers have weak core muscles from sitting all day.

This is an important workplace health question. Based on the information above, we recommend speaking with your GP if you have health concerns and contacting HSE (0300 003 1647) if your employer is not meeting their legal obligations. Keep written records of all incidents and communications. Please note: this is general health information, not a substitute for professional medical advice.