Hand-arm vibration at work: A brief guide

This leaflet is aimed at employers of workers who frequently and regularly use tools or machinery, such as hand-held power tools, hand-guided powered equipment or powered machines which process hand-held materials. These all transmit vibration into the hands and arms of workers and may cause hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) or carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

It will also be useful to employees and their representatives.

The leaflet explores the jobs which are affected; how to assess and control the risk; what employees need to know; and health surveillance measures. It will help you understand what you need to do to comply with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 (The Vibration Regulations 2005).

The leaflet has been simplified and streamlined to provide clear information that will enable employers to make sensible and proportionate decisions about managing risks arising from hand-arm vibration. The underlying message has not changed.