Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)

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What is HAVS

Hand arm vibration is vibration transmitted from work processes into workers’ hands and arms. It can be caused by operating hand-held power tools and hand-guided equipment or by holding vibrating materials being processed by machines.

Regular and frequent exposure to hand arm vibration can lead to permanent health effects. This is most likely when contact with a vibrating tool or work process is a regular part of a person’s job. Hand arm vibration can cause a range of conditions collectively known as hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), as well as specific diseases such as Vibration white finger and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Why it matters

The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 require employers to make a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risk to the health of employees created by vibration at the workplace including assessment of whether they are likely to be exposed above the daily exposure action value (EAV)or the exposure limit value (ELV).

What we do

Validate Consulting Ltd is proud to provide high-quality HAVS assessments fully compliant with HSE Vibration at Work guidance. Measurement is conducted using Calibrated Hand Arm Vibration meters by our expertly trained Occupational Hygiene Consultants. We conduct monitoring nationwide, with bespoke prices tailored to your details and required services.

What you receive

Following the assessment, you will receive a clear and comprehensive report outlining:
• Measurement methods and equipment used
• Detailed Hand Arm Vibration exposure results of tools
• Calculate daily vibration exposures (A(8)) to comply with the regulations

  • Practical recommendations to reduce risks
    • Identification of high-exposure tools and guidance on protective measures (e.g., regular equipment maintenance, person specific initiatives)

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HAVS FAQ’s

What do the Regulations require the employer to do?
The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations require employers to prevent or reduce risks to health and safety from exposure to vibration at work. Employees also have duties under the regulations too. The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations require you as an employer to:

  • Assess the vibration risk to your employees;
  • Take action to reduce vibration exposure that produces those risks;
  • Decide if employees are likely to be exposed above the:
  • Daily exposure action value (EAV) and if they are:
    introduce a programme of controls to eliminate risk, or reduce exposure to as low a level as is reasonably practicable;
  • Daily exposure limit value (ELV) and if they are:
    take immediate action to reduce their exposure below the limit value;
  • Make sure the legal limits on vibration exposure are not exceeded;
  • Provide information and training to employees on health risks and the actions you are taking to control those risks;
  • Carry out health surveillance (regular health checks) where there is a risk to health;
  • Keep a record of your risk assessment and control actions;
  • Keep health records for employees under health surveillance;
  • Review and update your risk assessment regularly.
What are the exposure action and limit values (EAV/ELV)?
The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 require you to take specific action when the daily vibration exposure reaches a certain action value.

The exposure action value (EAV) is a daily amount of vibration exposure above which employers are required to take action to control exposure. The greater the exposure level, the greater the risk and the more action employers will need to take to reduce the risk. For hand-arm vibration the EAV is a daily exposure of 2.5 m/s2 A(8).

There is also a level of vibration exposure that must not be exceeded. This is called the exposure limit value. The exposure limit value (ELV) is the maximum amount of vibration an employee may be exposed to on any single day. For hand-arm vibration the ELV is a daily exposure of 5 m/s2 A(8). It represents a high risk above which employees should not be exposed.

What Our Clients Say

"Validate – A first-class organization, efficient, trustworthy, competitive, and reliable. I have used them on many occasions and have always been completely satisfied with the job they have done."

Geoff Northey - Independent Consultant, Former Group H&S Advisor, Altro Group Ltd

"We have been working with Validate Consulting Ltd since 2011 and have found that they provide a professional service, 1st class reports, and ongoing support and advice."

The Safety Health and Environmental Team, Heatrae Sadia

"I’ve been using Validate Consulting for air and noise sampling for a number of years now, and during this time they have always provided my organisation with clear concise information and advice on all sampling they have undertaken on my behalf, Validate Consulting have always been quick to react to our needs and I would say their service has always been second to none, this feeling is reinforced further as we are a global organisation and now use them across our other manufacturing facilities."

EHS Manager, Aerospace Engine Manufacturer in the South West

"Validate have always been professional, understanding and helpful, they have provided solutions to improve our working environment for many of our employees. They have helped us with updates in legislation and specifically with onsite assessments in COSHH, Noise and LEV testing. No question is too much trouble, we look forward to an ongoing relationship and I would definitely recommend their services."

Rob Lockyer, HSE Manager, Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Rencol

Why choose Validate Consulting 

  • Trusted Through Word-of-Mouth
    • Most of our business comes from client referrals, a true testament to the trust, reliability, and satisfaction we deliver.
  • Tailored, Practical Solutions
    • We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Every recommendation is tailored, realistic, and grounded in your specific operational needs.
  • Expertise Without the Ego
    • Our experienced consultants are highly qualified and technically sound, but we’re easy to work with, friendly, and down-to-earth.
  • Fast Turnaround, Without Cutting Corners
    • We deliver high-quality reports and results promptly, helping you make quick, informed decisions without delay.
  • Clear Communication, No Jargon
    • We explain risks and controls in plain language, so everyone from operators to directors understands what needs to be done and why.
  • Independent and Unbiased Advice
    • As an independent consultancy, we’re not tied to equipment sales or external agendas, just your best interests.
  • Specialists in the Realities of Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
    • We understand the challenges SMEs face and work within your budget, timeframes, and operational constraints.
  • Building Long-Term Relationships, Not Just Jobs
    • We aim to become your trusted long-term partner in health protection - not just a one-off service provider.