The Small Print
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
A recent Helpline query was about Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), and what a D&T department should include in its risk assessments to avoid the risk of HAVS.
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome is a significant risk to those using power tools for a long period of time, such as builders. CLEAPSS has determined that, for schools, more than 20 minutes would be considered a long period of time. It is unlikely that a D&T teacher, or pupil, will use a power tool continuously for more than for 20 minutes. Under normal working conditions in D&T, HAVS should not be a significant risk.
Where you believe a member of staff or a pupil may have to continuously use a particular power tool for more than 20 minutes, you should put in place control measures, which may include one or more, the following:
Use a low vibration power tool; cheaper equipment is often poorly designed, and can increase the risk of HAVS
Use the correct power tool for the job, this will decrease the time needed
Break up jobs, so that the power tool is not used for a long period of time without breaks, or to an alternative operation
Make sure equipment is regularly checked and well maintained, excessive wear can cause the power tool to increase vibration
Make sure any cutting tools are kept sharp
Ensure that work is held securely, do not hold materials by hand
Store power tools safely and correctly when not in use; cold handles can increase the risk of HAVS
Work in warm dry conditions and exercise hands and fingers during and after using power tools
NB If you search for HAVS calculations online, you will find two-time limits: a 15-minute exposure for hammer action power tools and a 1-hour limit for other power tools.
As we do not expect schools to present a significant risk in terms of HAVS, CLEAPSS has identified a working baseline. If anyone is likely to use the same power tool continuously, for 20 minutes, then controls should be put in place.
The hour per day limit is unlikely to be achieved in schools, as most practical lessons have an active period of less than 1hr per day and pupils only tend to have one lesson per day. Teachers and technicians may have to use some power tools in each lesson. As most schools have three, four or, five practical lessons a day, and the tools are used for 20 minutes in one lesson, it is possible that the 1 hour limit could be achieved, but unlikely.
The 15-minute limit for hammer action power tools, is achievable, but, again, unlikely. It would be rare that a pupil or member of staff used a hammer action tool as part of their daily activity.
Nitrous Oxide (NO2)
You may already be aware of the use of NO2 in catering and other professional areas, including the health service. In come colleges and schools it may be used, on occasion, in the manufacture of food products, such as whipped cream.
NO2 is now classed as a Class C Drug, and controls are being put in place to outlaw it in non-legitimate uses.
It is important that stringent controls are in place regarding its use, including restricting access, and keeping the gas cannisters secure when not in use. Schools will already be aware of the legal requirements placed upon them, under COSHH regulations, to record and store hazardous substances safely and securely.
Nitrous oxide is a colourless gas, also known as laughing gas. Misuse by inhalation, can cause brief euphoria, mild perceptual changes and uncontrollable laughter. Heavy nitrous oxide use can result in serious health harms such as neurological damage. There is wider harm felt by communities including the consequences of drug driving incidents and littering of the discarded canisters.
Th Government is carrying out consultation and research on how best to license NO2, and we will pass on the findings through Futureminds.
The spring edition of Futureminds will have information about our work, with the awarding organisations and others, on how we can best support the future of the practical subjects.
If you would like to join in the conversation, sign up to our mailing list:
We will also have our usual range of articles from teachers, technicians, suppliers and others, who we think may provide some interesting and supportive information for schools.
If you are interested in contributing to Futureminds, please get in touch:
