Hand-arm Vibration (HAV) Monitoring

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Key Benefits of Hand-arm Vibration (HAV) Monitoring

• Hand-arm Vibration Monitoring can help identify individuals at risk of HAVS
• Measures can be enacted to prevent it from occurring
• Taking steps to avoid HAVS can help you avoid fines and prosecutions

The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 (the Vibration Regulations), came into force on 6 July 2005 and aim to protect workers from risks to health from vibration. The regulations introduce action and limit values for hand-arm and whole-body vibration, making Hand-arm Vibration Monitoring an imperative.

Excessive vibration can lead to HAVS (Hand – Arm Vibration Syndrome) varying symptoms in the hand and arm:

• Nerve symptoms – loss of feeling or tingling
• Aches and pains in the fingers
• Loss of grip strength
• Poor dexterity

Symptoms may be mild but can progress if work with vibrating tools continues without mitigating measures put in place. If preventive measures are not taken, as HAVS progresses the numbness becomes more permanent. Hand-arm Vibration Monitoring can help prevent cases of HAVS.

What is Hand-arm Vibration (HAV) Monitoring?

Hand-arm Vibration Monitoring involves identifying anyone exposed to hand-arm vibration in their role who may be at particular risk, and to check the effectiveness of control measures.