Legislation

This section is DEWALT’s step by step guide through the complex ‘Control of Vibration at Work' legislation

The Physical Agents Directive 2002/44/EC became law in July 2005. This directive introduced ‘Control Of Vibration At Work’ regulations, placing duties on employers to protect workers from vibration and reduce exposure levels. How Exposure Occurs:

Hand Arm Vibration (HAV)

Exposure to HAV can occur in all industries where hand-held power tools and machines are used. Workers may be exposed to HAV when operating power tools such as rotary hammers or grinders. Exposure may result in a range of ill health effects collectively known as Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome or HAVS. The most well known health effect is vibration white finger, but other effects include damage to sensory nerves, muscles and joints in the hands and arms.

Whole Body Vibration (WBV)

Look out for WBV risks where any commercial/industrial/construction vehicles are driven regularly for most of the day. Drivers of mobile machines, including certain tractors, fork lift trucks and qaurrying or earth-moving machinery, may be exposed to WBV and shocks which are associated with back pain. Other work factors, such as posture and heavy lifting, are also known to contribute to back problems for drivers. The relative importance of WBV is not clear at present. The DEWALT website does not cover WBV. For more information see www.hse.gov.uk/vibration/

Controlling the risks

The risks can be controlled by good management such as using the correct tool for the job.