Are Your Employees' Hands at Risk? What You Need to Know About HAVS

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a serious, irreversible condition affecting nearly 2 million UK workers. It is caused by prolonged exposure to hand-arm vibration (HAV), typically from vibrating tools, and can lead to severe long-term consequences, such as numbness, pain, and loss of grip strength. Once the damage is done, it cannot be undone. Understanding HAVS and taking preventive action is critical for both employees and employers alike.

What is Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)?

HAVS is a condition that arises from regular and frequent use of vibrating tools. Over time, vibrations cause damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the hands, leading to symptoms such as:

• Numbness or tingling in the fingers

• Pain or discomfort in the hands and arms

• Loss of grip strength

• In severe cases, permanent damage leading to disability

It’s crucial to note that HAVS is irreversible, and once symptoms appear, they can worsen over time. Early intervention can slow the progression, but the damage caused by prolonged exposure to vibrations can’t be undone.

High-Risk Tools

Certain tools and machinery are more likely to cause HAVS due to their level of vibration. These include:

• Pneumatic tools (e.g. jackhammers, rivet guns)

• Angle grinders, chainsaws, and sanders

• Hand drills and disc cutters

Any tool that produces vibrations has the potential to cause HAVS, but these are some of the most common offenders in high-risk environments like construction, manufacturing, and maintenance.

Employer Responsibilities Under UK Law

Under UK law, employers are required to protect their workers from the risks associated with HAVS. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 impose specific duties on employers to assess and reduce vibration risks.

Employer obligations include:

• Assessing the risk of vibration exposure and implementing measures to reduce it

• Providing training for workers on the dangers of HAVS and how to minimise risks

• Offering regular health checks to detect any early signs of HAVS

• Ensuring that exposure levels do not exceed 2.5 m/s² and are limited to 5 m/s² over a daily exposure period

Failure to meet these obligations can result in serious legal and financial consequences for businesses. Ensuring your workforce’s safety is not only a moral responsibility but also a legal requirement.

How to Reduce the Risk of HAVS

Preventing HAVS starts with understanding how vibration affects the body and taking practical steps to minimise exposure. Here are some key actions employers can take to reduce the risk:

1. Use low-vibration tools and ensure they are regularly maintained to prevent unnecessary vibration.

2. Limit exposure time by rotating tasks among workers to avoid prolonged use of vibrating tools.

3. Ensure workers’ hands stay warm and dry, as cold and damp conditions can worsen the effects of vibration and restrict blood flow.

4. Train employees to recognise the early symptoms of HAVS, such as numbness or tingling, so they can report them early.

   
   

By implementing these practices, employers can significantly reduce the risk of HAVS and protect their workforce from long-term harm.

Conclusion

HAVS is a preventable condition, but it requires proactive steps to manage and mitigate risk. Ignoring the potential hazards is not only dangerous for workers, but it also carries legal and financial risks for employers. Taking action now—by assessing risks, providing training, and using the right tools—can help protect your employees and ensure your business complies with UK health and safety regulations.

At SVC Safety Solutions, we specialise in helping businesses stay compliant and protect their workforce. Whether it’s through expert guidance, training, or practical safety solutions, we’re here to help safeguard your team.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—take action now to protect your workforce. 

Get in touch with us today to learn how we can assist you in managing HAVS risks and keeping your employees safe.