Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS): Employer Duties and Testing

What Is HAVS?

Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is a painful and disabling condition caused by regular and prolonged use of vibrating tools and equipment. It affects the blood vessels, nerves, and joints of the hands and arms. Early symptoms include tingling and numbness in the fingers, but as the condition progresses it can cause loss of grip strength, fingers turning white in the cold, and lasting damage that affects everyday tasks. HAVS is entirely preventable, but once the damage is done it cannot be reversed.

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone who regularly uses powered hand tools may be at risk. Common examples include grinders, sanders, drills, chainsaws, breakers, and impact wrenches. Workers in construction, manufacturing, engineering, and grounds maintenance are particularly likely to be exposed.

The Legal Requirements

The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 place duties on employers to assess and control the risk from vibration. The regulations set two key levels based on daily exposure:

The exposure action value (EAV) is a daily exposure of 2.5 metres per second squared, above which you must take steps to control the risk.

The exposure limit value (ELV) is a daily exposure of 5.0 metres per second squared, which must not be exceeded.

You must assess exposure, introduce controls, and provide information and training to those at risk.

Controlling the Risk

Effective control starts with reducing the need for vibrating tools where possible. Other measures include selecting low-vibration equipment, maintaining tools properly so they do not vibrate excessively, limiting the time workers spend using them, and ensuring tools are suitable for the job. Keeping hands warm and dry also helps reduce the effects of vibration.

Health Surveillance and Testing

Where employees are regularly exposed above the exposure action value, you must provide health surveillance. This is a programme of ongoing health checks designed to detect the early signs of HAVS so that action can be taken before the condition becomes disabling. It typically involves a questionnaire and assessment carried out by a competent person, with referral to an occupational health professional where needed. Health surveillance also helps you check that your control measures are working.

Keeping Records

You should keep records of vibration risk assessments, the controls you have introduced, and the results of health surveillance. Good records demonstrate compliance and help you spot trends that might indicate a problem with a particular task or piece of equipment.

How We Can Help

Our HAVS testing service includes vibration risk assessments and health surveillance delivered across Leicestershire and the East Midlands. We help you understand your exposure levels, put practical controls in place, and meet your duties under the vibration regulations. Contact us to arrange an assessment or discuss your requirements.