What is HAV?
Hand Arm Vibration (HAV) is vibration transmitted from work processes into workers hands and arms. It can be caused by operating hand held power tools or by holding materials being processed by machines such as pedestal grinders.
The HSE estimates that there are around 36,000 people with an advanced stage of vibration white finger (VWF) which is the most well known form of hand arm vibration syndrome. VWF is also one of the most common reasons for occupational ill health claims made against employers.
How can tool and machine manufacturers help?
Equipment manufacturers are generally trying to improve the vibration performance of their products, so new tools and machines are likely to emit lower vibration than older equipment. You will gain the maximum benefit from these improvements if you introduce a policy of buying the most suitable equipment when you replace tools or machines.
For most types of equipment, manufacturers are required by law to:-
Design and construct equipment which will cause the minimum risk of vibration injury
Provide you with warning of any residual risks from vibration
Provide you with information on vibration levels
Provide you with instructions on how to use the equipment to avoid risks from vibration You should aim to buy the lowest vibration equipment suitable for the job. Vibration levels are identified in units of metres per second squared (m/s2) What does the law require you to do about these risks? Health and Safety law requires you to do a number of things to protect your employees. You should:-
Assess the risk to the health of your employees and plan for its control - manage the risk
Provide suitable equipment for your employees’ use
Maintain equipment correctly
Give your employees information and training on health risks and safe use of the equipment
Where vibration levels remain high and workers are likely to be exposed to HAV risk, health surveillance is likely to be needed
Provide reports to the relevant enforcing authority on cases of HAV syndrome in your workforce
Consult your safety or employee representative on your proposals to deal with vibration hazards
What you can do to control the risk?
There are many things you can do, several of which may cost very little and could also improve productivity and product quality Look for alternative ways of working which may eliminate vibrating equipment altogether. For example, by using Paslode Impulse or Spit Pulsa cordless gas nailers instead of drilling, vibration risk can be substantially reduced. Make sure your employees use the most appropriate equipment for each job. Minimise the time individuals use the equipment (eg. faster more efficient equipment, job rotation). Maintain tools to the manufacturers specifications to avoid worsening vibration. For example:
Replace vibration mounts before they are worn out
Ensure rotating parts are checked for balance and replace them if necessary
Get advice from the equipment manufacturer on safe use of the equipment
Introduce a purchasing policy specifying low vibration performance for new equipment
