HAVS Assessment

Employees who regularly use hand-held vibrating tools and machinery can suffer permanent injuries to their hands and arms. Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a widespread and debilitating industrial disease affecting the blood vessels, nerves, muscles and joints of the hand, wrist and arm.

Employers have a duty to provide health surveillance for all employees likely to be regularly exposed above the Exposure Action Value (EAV). We deliver a tiered programme that follows HSE Guidance HSG88, helping you catch problems early.

Tiered approach

1. 1

   Initial / baseline assessment

   Confidential questionnaire and record sheet for managers, satisfying HSE requirements at first exposure.

2. 2

   Annual screening questionnaire

   HAVS questionnaire completed at twelve-monthly intervals in the absence of any reported health issues.

3. 3

   Assessment by qualified person

   Full assessment by a qualified occupational health professional, triggered when symptoms are reported at Tier 2.

4. 4

   Formal diagnosis by OH physician

   OH Physician advises whether the case is reportable under RIDDOR 1995 and recommends management action.

5. 5

   Standardised tests (optional)

   Quantitative assessment compared to normal population data — used to monitor disease progression over time.

Who it's for

Construction, foundry, automotive, forestry, demolition and manufacturing employers — anywhere workers regularly use hand-held power tools, grinders, breakers, chainsaws or similar equipment.