Hand-arm vibration or HAVS can develop in people who are using hand-held power tools in their workplace for significant lengths of time. It can cause quite serious health issues, such as disorders of the blood vessels, nerves and joints.
HAVS can be extremely disabling. According to the Health & Safety Executive, nearly two million people in the UK are at risk of contracting this disease.
Work equipment which may create a risk of developing HAVS includes: -
- Grinders;
- Impact drills;
- Chainsaws;
- Sanders and polishers;
- Scaling hammers including needle scalers;
- Powered hammers for chipping, demolition, road breaking etc
Industries where these tools are most commonly used include construction, engineering, oil & gas; communications, forestry, transport; manufacturing and shipbuilding.
Your employer has a duty under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 to minimise the risk of injury to all its employees. They should carry out an assessment of the risk to health created by vibration in the workplace and provide information instruction and training for employees on how best to minimise the risk.
If you believe you are suffering from hand-arm vibration as a result of working conditions or are aware of a family member who may be, please contact us to discuss the matter on 0800 988 8082 or complete our online enquiry form and a member of our team will get back to you right away.
