Confined Spaces & Noise Flashcards

What is Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)?

Answer: A permanent, irreversible condition affecting blood vessels, nerves, and muscles in hands and arms caused by vibrating tools

HAVS is a permanent, disabling condition affecting blood vessels (Vibration White Finger), nerves, and muscles in the hands and arms, caused by regular use of vibrating hand tools. It cannot be cured once developed.

Under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, what is the daily Exposure Action Value (EAV) for hand-arm vibration?

Answer: 2.5 m/s² A(8)

The Exposure Action Value for hand-arm vibration is 2.5 m/s² A(8). At this level, employers must take action to reduce vibration exposure, including providing health surveillance for regularly exposed workers.

What does A(8) mean in the context of vibration exposure?

Answer: A normalised daily exposure value based on an 8-hour reference period

A(8) is the normalised daily vibration exposure expressed as an equivalent continuous level over an 8-hour reference period. It takes into account both the vibration magnitude and the duration of exposure.

What early symptom should a construction worker report that may indicate the development of HAVS?

Answer: Whitening (blanching) of fingers, especially in cold conditions

Vibration White Finger (blanching/whitening of the fingers, especially in cold conditions) is an early symptom of HAVS. Workers should report this immediately as continued exposure will worsen the condition.

What type of health surveillance is required for workers regularly exposed to hand-arm vibration?

Answer: Regular structured health questionnaires and clinical examination by an occupational health professional

Workers regularly exposed to hand-arm vibration above the Exposure Action Value must receive health surveillance including regular structured questionnaires and, where indicated, clinical examination by an occupational health professional to detect early signs of HAVS.

How can a specialist contractor reduce their employees' vibration exposure practically?

Answer: Use low-vibration tools, limit daily trigger time, rotate tasks between workers, and maintain equipment properly

Practical vibration reduction includes selecting tools with lower vibration ratings, limiting daily tool use time, rotating tasks to spread exposure between workers, and maintaining tools in good condition (blunt tools vibrate more than sharp ones).