Carrying out a hand-arm vibration (HAV) survey

There are many different types of tools and equipment that can cause exposure to high levels of hand-arm vibration. There are two distinct types of equipment — rotary and hammer action. Some of the more common ones are:

As a general guide, hammer action tools pose the higher risk. If your operators use tools in the ‘hammer’ group for more than 30 minutes per day, or tools in the ‘rotary’ group more than two hours per day, they are probably being exposed to high levels of vibration and you will need to investigate further.

If you suspect that any of your employees are at risk, based on these rough indicators, you should ask them to complete the appropriate form (taken from the HAV ACoP 140) at the end of this chapter. Form 1 is an initial assessment questionnaire. Form 2 is for completion by operators already being exposed to vibration.

If the answer to any of the questions is ‘yes’, you should assume that there is a risk from exposure to HAV and refer them to a doctor (preferably an occupational physician). You should also take action to reduce exposure levels.

An investigation into the effects of using vibrating tools or equipment does not necessarily entail the use of measuring equipment and/or consultants. There are simple enquiries you can make first.

Find out where the main problems are;

• look at the process;
• look at the installation;
• look at the task;
• look at the tools;
• check maintenance requirements;
• look at the work schedule;
• check operator usage;
• consider operator protection;
• look at the costs and benefits; and
• look for symptoms.

Once you have identified the probable causes of the vibration exposure, you need to look at ways to reduce the risks. For example, consider:

• alternative working methods to eliminate vibrating equipment;
• ensuring employees use the right equipment (inappropriate equipment may take longer to do the job or vibrate more);
• minimising individuals’ use of equipment, e.g. by job rotation;
• limiting periods of continuous equipment use by individuals by introducing other tasks;
• applying ergonomics to improve posture (see occupational hygiene and ergonomics);
• using jigs to hold materials or tools;
• maintaining tools to avoid worsening vibration. For example:
  • replace vibration mounts before they wear out;
  • keep rotating parts balanced and replace if necessary; and
  • keep tools sharp;
• advice from your trade association on best practice;
• advice from the equipment manufacturer on its safe use;
• adding vibration performance to your purchasing policy;
• mechanising/automating the work or changing methods;
• using anti-vibration mounts for operator stations; and
• providing tool supports (e.g. tensioners or balancers) allowing the operator to reduce grip and feed force.

You should consult with your safety or employee representative when drafting your proposals for change (see Summary Sheet A2 and Summary Sheet A20.

Feedback from your workforce may help to identify the most appropriate solution in a shorter time.