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 has become law in July 2005. This new directive has introduced ‘Control Of Vibration At Work’ regulations in order to place duties on employers to protect workers from vibration and reduce exposure levels. This section is DEWALT’s step by step guide through this complex legislation.

Hand Arm Vibration (HAV)

Regular long term exposure to HAV may cause diseases such as 'vibration white finger' which are painful and disabling. Look out for HAV risks in all industries where hand-held power tools and machines which transmit vibration into the hands are used.

Whole Body Vibration (WBV)

Regular long term exposure to WBV is associated with back pain alongside other factors such as poor posture and heavy lifting. Look out for WBV risks where any commercial/industrial/construction vehicles are driven regularly for most of the day. 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. How exposure occurs Exposure to vibration at work can occur in two main ways: hand-transmitted vibration (known as hand-arm vibration or HAV) and vibration transmitted through the seat or feet(known as whole-body vibration or WBV).
Workers may be exposed to HAV when operating hand-held power tools such as rotary hammers or griders. Exposure may result in a range of 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. Drivers of some mobile machines, including certain tractors, fork lift trucks and quarrying 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 and 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/