OCC/Physical Health/TBT-OCC-017

Vibration Exposure Assessment

Occupational Health › Physical Health › Vibration Exposure Assessment

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Vibration exposure assessment measures how much hand-arm vibration (HAV) workers receive daily.
The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 set an exposure action value (EAV) of 2.5 m/s².
The exposure limit value (ELV) is 5 m/s² — this must not be exceeded in any working day.
Common high-vibration tools include breakers, compactors, grinders, drills, and chainsaws.
The HSE provides a vibration exposure calculator and ready reckoner for site use.
Employers must assess vibration exposure for all workers who regularly use vibrating tools.
Tool vibration magnitude data should be obtained from manufacturer declarations and HSE guidance.
Actual vibration levels in the field are typically higher than manufacturer-stated values.
Assessment results determine the controls needed, including tool selection and time limits.
Records of vibration assessments must be kept and updated when tools or tasks change.

Prevent HAVS	Uncontrolled vibration exposure causes permanent nerve and blood vessel damage in the hands and fingers.
Legal duty	The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 require employers to assess and control vibration exposure.
Early detection	Regular assessment identifies overexposure before symptoms develop, allowing controls to be introduced in time.

Don't

Assess vibration exposure for every worker who regularly uses vibrating hand tools
Use the HSE vibration exposure calculator to estimate daily exposure levels accurately
Record tool vibration data from manufacturer information and field measurements
Implement time limits for high-vibration tools to keep exposure below the EAV
Select low-vibration tools and equipment wherever a practical alternative exists
Rotate workers between vibrating and non-vibrating tasks to reduce individual exposure
Ensure workers report early symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or white fingers
Update assessments when new tools are introduced or work patterns change
Provide health surveillance including regular questionnaires and clinical assessments
Brief operatives on their personal daily vibration exposure limits before each shift

DON'T allow workers to exceed the exposure limit value of 5 m/s² in any day
DON'T rely solely on manufacturer vibration data — field values are usually higher
DON'T ignore the exposure action value of 2.5 m/s² — controls must start here
DON'T assume short tool use means low exposure — breakers reach limits quickly
DON'T skip vibration assessments for part-time or agency workers using vibrating tools
DON'T use worn or poorly maintained tools as they generate higher vibration levels
DON'T dismiss tingling or numbness in hands — report to your supervisor immediately
DON'T grip vibrating tools tighter than necessary as this increases vibration transfer
DON'T forget to reassess when tasks, tools, or working methods change on site
DON'T treat vibration assessment as a one-off exercise — review it regularly

See also: Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) | Breaker and Drill Safety

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