HAVS stands for Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome. It can be a painful and disabling condition that is permanent but preventable. The condition develops from the regular use of handheld power tools. It affects the nerves, blood vessels, muscles and joints of the hand, wrist and arms. The higher the levels of vibration you are exposed to and the longer the durations you are exposed for the higher the risk of HAVS, symptoms include:
Loss of feeling in the fingers
Tingling / numbness in the fingers
Loss of strength in the hands, reduced grip.
Fingers going white and then becoming red and painful on recovery
How to prevent
When purchasing tools check the vibration levels and opt for lower levels of vibration where possible.
Power tools should be properly maintained and regularly serviced to avoid increased vibration from vaults or general wear. Keep blades sharp so they remain efficient.
Reduce the amount of time you use a tool in one go, by doing other jobs in between and or taking regular breaks.
Maintain good circulation by keeping the hands and body warm and dry. Massage and exercise fingers during work breaks
How to Monitor/ test
Occupational health companies offer private testing and risk assessment for HAVS and some companies offer this nationally. It is recommended? that anyone working with vibrating machinery undergoes annual assessment. Testing is done on a tier basis.
Tier: 1 – A basic assessment before a worker is exposed to any heavy vibration. A person needs to fill self-administered health and submit it to the occupational health provider for review.
Tier 2 - This is an annual questionnaire that’s administered to all employees exposed to vibration. The results of this indicate whether an employee needs to undergo a T3 or T4 HAVS assessment.
Tier 3 -This is a face to face assessment. If the results show that an employee has symptoms that are indicative of HAVS then they’re referred to T4.
Tier 4 - Formal HAVS diagnosis and advice on fitness for work.
Tier 5 - This is optional and involves an investigation into the original cause of HAVS.
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