Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) Co-ordinator

Purpose

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

Multiple studies have shown that regular and frequent exposure to HAV can lead to permanent adverse health effects, which are most likely to occur when contact with a vibrating tool or work process is a regular and significant part of a person’s job.

Hand-arm vibration can cause a range of conditions collectively known as hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). The signs and symptoms include numbness, pain, and blanching (turning pale and ashen).

Target Audience

Industry workers and their supervisors who use some of the below mentioned power tools and equipment which can place workers at increase risk of developing Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS):

• chainsaws
• impulse tools
• ratchet screwdrivers
• concrete breakers
• cut-off saws
• hammer drills
• hand-held grinders
• impact wrenches
• jigsaws
• pedestal grinders
• polishers
• power hammers
• power chisels
• powered lawn mowers
• powered sanders
• brush/weed cutters

Course Content

The HAVS training  will cover a range of topics covering practical HAVS management through to the requirements and implementation of the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations (CoVAWR).  The course content will include:

• Introduction to Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
• Hand arm vibration risks
• Legislation relating to HAVS
• Vibration theory and vibration levels
• Vibration meters and their use
• Vibration exposure
• Management of HAVS

Following the course it is expected that the delegates will be able to:

• Operate an on-site hand arm vibration management programme
• Understand and, if necessary, measure hand arm vibration levels
• Assess and plan jobs to control HAVS risks
• Communicate information about HAVS risk and good practice to tool users