Hand ArmVibration (HAVs)

Learn about Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVs), its prevention, and the permanent health risks caused by vibrating tools, as regulated since 2005.

Adverse Effectsof HAV

Continuous exposure to vibration can lead to permanent health issues.

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  • Understanding HAVs

    HAVs results from vibration damage to arms and hands, causing lasting injuries.

  • Regulations for Vibration Safety

    The 2005 Vibration Regulations aim to protect workers from vibration-related risks.

  • Recognizing HAV Symptoms

    Symptoms include numbness, pain, and difficulty handling small objects or working in cold environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are 3 main symptoms when its comes to Hand Arm Vibration (HAVs). These are:

  • Sensory symptoms such as tingling and numbness in the fingers
  • Poor circulation in the fingers
  • Nerve (carpal tunnel syndrome), bone and joint damage

There are various types of hand-held power tools and apparatus which can place employees’ at an increased risk of developing HAVS. Some of the more common ones are:

  • Chainsaws
  • Impulse Tools
  • Ratchet Screwdrivers
  • Concrete Breakers
  • Cut-off Saws
  • Hammer Drills
  • Hand-held Grinders
  • Impact Wrenches
  • Jigsaws
  • Pedestal Grinders
  • Polishers
  • Power Hammers
  • Power Chisels
  • Powered Lawn Mowers
  • Powered Sanders
  • Brush/Weed Cutters

The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations introduces a detailed “Tier system” for HAVS assessments.

Tier 1 and Tier 2 are completed by conducting assessment questionnaires.

  • Tier 1: An initial assessment before the employee starts work with vibrating tools.
  • Tier 2: An annual assessment.

Anybody disclosing any form of symptoms during Tier 1 or 2 reviews should then be subject to further more detailed assessment by an Occupational Health Specialist.

  • Tier 3: A ‘qualified health professional’ administers a wide-ranging and detailed questionnaire and conveys out a range of various clinical tests.  Those with the fitting symptoms and history advance to the next tier.
  • Tier 4: This stage is when an official diagnosis is completed.  It must be directed by a suitably qualified Occupational Health Physician. Any such formal diagnosis must be reported by the employer under RIDDOR 2013.