Hand-arm vibration
Vibration transmitted into the hands and arms when using vibrating tools or machinery. Prolonged exposure can cause hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and vibration white finger. Each jurisdiction sets exposure action and limit values that differ from each other.
Local equivalents exist but use different names or numerical thresholds. Do not apply one jurisdiction's values in another.
Also known as
By jurisdiction
UK HSE
“hand-arm vibration”HAVExact equivalentThe Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 (SI 2005/1093) set an exposure action value (EAV) of 2.5 m/s² A(8) and an exposure limit value (ELV) of 5 m/s² A(8) for hand-arm vibration. Employers must assess exposure, eliminate or reduce risks, carry out health surveillance for employees above the EAV, and ensure the ELV is not exceeded.
Irish HSA
“hand-arm vibration”Close equivalentThe Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Control of Vibration at Work) Regulations 2006 (SI 2006/370) implement EU Directive 2002/44/EC. The EAV is 2.5 m/s² A(8) and the ELV is 5 m/s² A(8), numerically the same as GB values. The regulations are separate Irish instruments derived from the same EU Directive.
US OSHA
“hand-arm vibration”No equivalentNo equivalent in this jurisdiction.
Practitioner note: Exposure is trigger time, not shift length. Manufacturers' declared emission values are test-condition figures and usually understate real site exposure.