A Guide to… Hand-Arm Vibration

Aim of this Training Tool The aim of this Training Tool is to help lessen the risks to employees and your business when it comes to Hand-Arm Vibration (HAVs) This presentation covers the following: What is hand-arm vibration? The effects Regulations Who is at risk? Symptoms What are the hazards? And much more…

Regulations The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 set a legal duty to protect employees from the effects of vibration. There are also requirements for manufacturers and suppliers of equipment to ensure that equipment is supplied with the lowest practicably obtainable values.

What is Hand-Arm Vibration (HAVs) Commonly know as vibration white finger Affects people every year Direct result of using vibratory tools No effective treatment

The effects of Hand-Arm Vibration The effects of hand–arm vibration can range from slight tingling in the finger to loss of manual dexterity. Hand–arm vibration syndrome is preventable, but once the damage is done it is permanent. The health effects of vibration are dependent on the intensity, frequency, duration of exposure, point of transmission and resonance of the part of the body exposed. An understanding or measurement of “trigger time” is important. The sources of vibration are numerous. Measures should be taken to systematically identify, eliminate and/or control exposure.

What are the hazards? Hazards: Who causes vibration risk? Prolonged exposure to vibratory tools Machinery which is used beyond its capacity Working in cold conditions/adverse weather conditions Someone who smokes Reduced grip of tools due to poor design Who causes vibration risk? Concrete Breakers Jack Hammers Vibrating Pokers Compacters Sanders Angle Grinders Stonemasons Plus many more… Employees’ own equipment is also covered by PUWER.

Symptoms of vibration white finger Tingling or numbness in the fingers when using the tool/equipment Finger/s may turn white and may start to ache Recurrent pain or throbbing in the hands Experience of painful attacks at any time Difficulty in gripping objects or completing fiddly tasks such as fastening buttons Employees’ own equipment is also covered by PUWER.

What employers are required to do Assess the risks to health from exposure to continuous levels of vibration and determine the control measures needed Introduce effective control measures Record the assessments and review them periodically or when changes occur Ensure that the most appropriate equipment is used for the job Ensure those persons responsible for managing work likely to result in exposure to hand-arm vibration are adequately trained and competent Inform, instruct and train employees about the risks and precautions Continued…

Continued… Ensure no new equipment or processes are introduced without a risk assessment and approval of a designated manager Maintain an inventory of all vibration equipment used that is likely to cause hand-arm vibration Monitor exposure of hand-arm vibration, and undertake appropriate health surveillance where necessary Maintain tools to the manufacturers’ specifications to avoid worsening vibration Review this policy periodically, particularly when changes in legislation occur.

Advice Use the right tools for the job Tools should be kept in good working order Do not grip machinery too tightly Do not work for long periods without a break Exercise hands regularly Wear the correct PPE e.g. Gloves Report tools which produce high levels of vibration