HAVS
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome
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What is Hand Arm Vibration?
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a condition that affects people who regularly use vibratory equipment. It is estimated by the Health and Safety Executive that up to 2 million people are exposed to the risks of HAVS throughout the UK in various industries such as construction, utilities, engineering, landscaping and manufacturing. Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome causes damage to nerves, blood vessels and joints of the hand, wrist and arm. This can cause extreme pain and distress to sufferers - especially in cold weather conditions. A loss of dexterity and feeling in the hands can also be expected - meaning that simple daily tasks become impossible. Hand Arm Vibration can be prevented, providing we take the appropriate early steps to reduce the risks of over exposure to vibration.
Once Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome has been onset it is impossible to cure.
How to use this Guide:
To gain an indication of the safe working time for a power tool take the vibration value in the output table and find the corresponding value in the Vibration Safety Chart. The figure parallel to the vibration value gives the approximate maximum time of use in any 8 hour working shift. For instance; a 110v Breaker has a Vibration value of 7.5m/s2. In the Hand Arm Vibration Safety Chart the corresponding figure shown is 53 Mins meaning the approximate length of time an operator can use that tool in an 8 hour shift is 53 minutes. There are other factors, which may influence the effect of Vibration on the body for example stature and temperature; therefore this scale should be used for broad guidance only.
Please check on any item of plant that you have that is not on the list and check the data sheet for the Vibration Value (….m/s2) and use this chart to calculate the amount of time within an 8 hour shift that the tool can be used for. Please feedback any frequently used tools via the 'Report a problem' button.
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