The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimates that two million workers are exposed to the risks of HAVS throughout the UK. Any worker, ranging from construction workers to gardeners, who use vibratory power tools regularly, may be at risk. While there is no definite list of industries or tools that are directly responsible, it is worth noting that even the most susceptible industries, such as roadworking or utilities, can eliminate the risks if properly managed.
INDUSTRIES AT RISK Construction Road and Rail Civils Manufacturing Plants Forestry Mining Landscaping Utilities Fabricators Engineering Foundries Shipbuilders Quarrying Mechanics
Employers have a legal obligation to ensure that exposure to vibration is minimised for their employees using power tools and that the risks of vibration are suitably measured and controlled. Employers must also ensure relevant training, awareness and information is provided to their employees on the risks and subsequent actions being taken to control the risks of harmful vibrations. Suitable health surveillance must be provided to measure the daily exposure action values and exposure limit values being actively monitored. Exposure Action Value: EAV acts as a warning level, indicating that daily vibration levels experienced by the operator are approaching dangerous levels and precautions must be taken to reduce or stop vibration. Exposure Limit Value: ELV indicates daily exposure levels have been exceeded and the operator must cease using the tool immediately.
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