Hand Arm Vibration

Who is at risk?

  • Those who regularly use high vibration tools such as breakers, saws, vibrating machines etc.

What are the symptoms?

  • Pins and needles, pain and numbness in the finger tips, reduced sensitivity, painful wrists.

What must employers do?

  • Assess the risk to the health of employees and plan for its control.
  • Manage the risk.
  • Provide suitable equimen for employees' use.
  • Maintain equipment correctly.
  • Supply information and training on health risks and safe use of equipment.
  • Provide health surveillance of your employees where risks cannot be completely eliminated.
  • Consult with safety or employee representative on proposals to deal with vibration hazards.

What will we do?

  • Regular maintenance of equipment.
  • Supply the latest equipment.
  • Supply ratings for each tool, to allow risk to be managed.
  • Provide written instructions with equipment.
  • Provide training to staff and customers to increase awareness.
  • Downloads and further information available from our website.

Vibration ratings for equipment

Decorating

HV - High Vibration Level
Control measures required: risk assessment, surveillance, job rotation, alternative measures.
Vibration in m/s2 over 10.
Decorating

MV - Medium Vibration Level
Similiar measures to HV should be implemented.
Vibration in m/s2 5-10, 2 hours maximum daily use without further assessment.
Decorating

LV - Low Vibration Level
Low level of risk.
Vibration in m/s2 below 5, 8 hours maximum daily use.

The above information is a simple guide for customers and you should obtain exact ratings for machines you are using. For each tool requiring a rating see key indicators for that piece of equipment.

For a more in depth explanation of HAV visit www.hse.gov.uk.