Hand-arm vibration in amenity horticulture and how to control the risk

This guidance is aimed at employers in amenity horticulture. It explains how to protect workers from the risk of hand-arm vibration.

Hand-arm vibration is vibration transmitted into workers' hands and arms, for example by hand-held and guided power tools, such as hedge trimmers and powered mowers.

Regular and frequent exposure to hand-arm vibration can lead to permanent ill health. The two main health conditions associated with hand-arm vibration exposure are:

• hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS)
• carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)

The guidance will help employers:

• identify when exposure may cause harm
• understand how to comply with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005
• take practical steps to control the vibration risk