HSES Case Study Reducing HAVS 11 October 2016 What happened? BBK undertook a case study in collaboration with it’s supplier General Welding (GWS) and abrasives manufacturer Rhodius Engineering to review traditional cutting and grinding practices and investigate new techniques to reduce the negative effect of vibration on employees health What were the details? BBK engaged with GWS to look at alternative methods of pipe preparation which could eliminate the grinding process. As result BBK invested in ‘Tri-Tool’ for use in it’s manufacturing facility at Bromborough almost eliminating vibration in this process. The system also completely eliminates dust hazards and reduces noise exposure significantly. In collaboration with GWS and Rhodius we looked to see if we could significantly reduce vibration magnitudes and exposure times by utilising superior products to those currently used. A series of trials was conducted with the assistance of Testal to monitor vibration. Results showed that with minimum investment in superior grinding machines and discs we can reduce exposure times by up to 65%. Additionally we identified potential labour cost savings of up to £20k on a typical 20,000m pipe fabrication project. What can we learn? The cheapest option may not always be the best or most cost effective option. By investing in better quality equipment and consumables we can significantly reduce the potential long term negative health effects on our employees of our operations and by collaborating with experts in their fields we can potentially discover the processes and equipment to do this.