OCC/Physical Health/TBT-OCC-026
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) Prevention
Occupational Health › Physical Health › Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) Prevention
Toolbox Talk
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) Prevention
Regular use of vibrating tools such as breakers, disc cutters, grinders, and compactors can cause permanent nerve and blood vessel damage in your hands and arms. Hand arm vibration syndrome develops gradually and is irreversible once established. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, pain, and white finger attacks triggered by cold. Managing daily exposure and using low-vibration equipment are essential to prevent this disabling condition.
Key Hazards
Permanent nerve damage causing numbness and loss of grip strength
White finger attacks restricting blood flow in cold conditions
Inability to perform fine tasks due to reduced hand sensitivity
Chronic pain in hands and wrists affecting quality of life
Control Measures
- Use low-vibration tools and equipment wherever a suitable alternative is available for the task.
- Limit daily exposure time using the HSE exposure calculator and rotate tasks between workers.
- Ensure all vibrating tools are properly maintained with sharp blades and balanced components.
- Take regular breaks from vibrating tool use — at least 10 minutes every hour of exposure.
- Keep hands warm and dry during and after using vibrating equipment, especially in cold weather.
- Wear anti-vibration gloves where specified, but do not rely on them as the primary control.
- Report any tingling, numbness, or white finger symptoms to your supervisor and occupational health.
- Attend health surveillance appointments including regular questionnaire and hand assessments.
- Record all vibration exposure in the site register so daily limits can be monitored.
Remember
- HAVS damage is permanent and irreversible once the condition has become established.
- Tingling or numbness in your fingers after using vibrating tools is an early warning sign.
- The daily exposure action value is 2.5 m/s² and the limit value is 5 m/s² — know your limits.
- Keeping your hands warm significantly reduces the risk of vibration-related damage.
- Health surveillance is a legal requirement for workers regularly exposed to hand arm vibration.
- Report symptoms early because stopping exposure can prevent the condition from getting worse.
Applicable Legislation: Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
Delivered By
RAMS Builder
Generate professional Risk Assessment and Method Statements in minutes. 10 document formats, site-specific content, instant Word download.