Question 1

What is HAVS?

Accepted Answer

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a permanent and disabling condition caused by long-term exposure to vibration from hand-held or hand-guided tools. It can cause vibration white finger, nerve damage, and reduced grip strength. HAVS is preventable but not curable.

Question 2

What does A(8) mean?

Accepted Answer

A(8) is the daily vibration exposure normalised to an 8-hour reference period, in m/s². It lets you compare different tools and durations against the legal Exposure Action Value (2.5 m/s²) and Exposure Limit Value (5.0 m/s²).

Question 3

What is the exposure action value for hand-arm vibration?

Accepted Answer

The Exposure Action Value (EAV) is 2.5 m/s² A(8), equivalent to 100 exposure points. Above the EAV, employers must take action to reduce exposure as low as reasonably practicable, provide information and training, and consider health surveillance.

Question 4

What is the exposure limit value?

Accepted Answer

The Exposure Limit Value (ELV) is 5.0 m/s² A(8), equivalent to 400 exposure points. Daily exposure must not exceed the ELV under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005.

Question 5

How do I work out vibration points?

Accepted Answer

Points per hour = (magnitude / 2.5)² × 100 / 8. For each tool, multiply points per hour by the trigger time in hours to get partial points. Total daily points are the sum across all tools used in the day. 100 points = EAV, 400 points = ELV.

Question 6

What is trigger time?

Accepted Answer

Trigger time is the actual hands-on time the tool is creating vibration in the operator's hands — not the whole working day, and not setup, walking around, or rest breaks. Accurate trigger time is critical for a realistic A(8) estimate.

Question 7

Do I need health surveillance for HAVS?

Accepted Answer

Where there is a likely risk of HAVS — typically when exposure is at or above the EAV — employers must provide health surveillance. This is a structured programme to detect early signs of HAVS so action can be taken before damage is permanent.

Question 8

What happens if exposure is above the ELV?

Accepted Answer

If estimated daily exposure is above 5.0 m/s² A(8) (400 points), immediate action is required to reduce exposure. Options include shorter trigger times, switching to lower-vibration tools, job rotation, better tool maintenance, and reviewing the work method.

Question 9

Can I use manufacturer vibration data?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and you should. Use the magnitude override field for any row where you have manufacturer or measured data, ideally based on real working conditions. Manufacturer 'declared' values can underestimate real exposure, so a safety margin is sensible.

Question 10

Is this calculator the same as the HSE spreadsheet?

Accepted Answer

It uses the same model and formulas as the HSE points/A(8) spreadsheet, including the same warning bands. Always check current HSE guidance and verify against your own measured data and risk assessment.

Question 11

Is HAVS reportable under RIDDOR?

Accepted Answer

Yes — diagnosed HAVS in employees can be reportable under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations) as an occupational disease where it is connected to work activities.

Question 12

Which tools usually create high vibration exposure?

Accepted Answer

Pneumatic hammers, demolition / rotary hammers, chipping hammers, needle scalers (non vibration-reduced), reciprocating saws, plate compactors, and rock drills are all high-vibration tools. Even short trigger times with these tools can push exposure over the EAV.

Hand-Arm Vibration Exposure Calculator

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