Real Tool Vibration Measurements for HAVS Compliance

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a serious occupational hazard, and accurately assessing risk starts with understanding how your tools behave in the field – not just what the manufacturer says on paper.

We recently completed HAVS measurements for a woodworking manufacturing company and learned a few valuable lessons that could apply to your business.

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Why Real Tool Vibration Measurements Matter More Than Manufacturer Data

Manufacturer vibration data is usually collected in controlled test conditions. It’s a useful starting point – but it doesn’t always match how tools are used in a busy workshop, on a construction site, or out in the field.

Real-world measurements capture the way your operatives actually use tools: the forces they apply, the accessories they fit, and the materials they’re working on. That’s what ultimately drives HAVS risk.

Why Measure Human Transmitted Vibration?

Many clients come to us because manufacturer vibration data doesn’t always match real-world use. In one case, the company had even received a claim linked to tool vibration exposure.

Tool accessories have a major impact on vibration levels. For example, using an impact wrench to tighten an M14 socket into high tensile steel creates very different vibration compared to driving a hex head timber screw.

Measuring human transmitted vibration – directly at the hand–tool interface – gives a realistic picture of what your workforce is actually exposed to, rather than relying on best guesses.

How We Measure Vibration Exposure

For this project, we:

• Deployed 18 HAVi Technologies Ltd tool timers on various tools to accurately log trigger time throughout the workday.
• Measured vibration on 32 different tools – each tested with a variety of accessories and bits – using a calibrated tri-axial accelerometer block and meter.

This approach gives a highly accurate picture of actual exposure – combining logged trigger times with real vibration levels for each tool and accessory setup.

Why Accurate Data Makes a Difference

Our detailed reports form the basis of a suitable and sufficient risk assessment. They help you make informed decisions about:

• Tool usage patterns – which tools are driving the highest exposure and where changes will have the biggest impact.
• Protective equipment requirements – whether additional controls or upgraded PPE are required for certain tasks.
• Job rotation or exposure limits – how to structure work so that individuals stay within safe exposure levels.

Instead of relying on assumptions, you get a clear, evidence-based view of HAVS risk across your site.

How Do You Complete Your HAVS Assessments?

If you’re relying solely on manufacturer data or estimates, you could be missing key risks – especially where multiple tools, accessories, and materials are involved.

We recommend measuring vibration directly on site, especially if you use multiple tools or accessories in variable conditions. Real data makes it much easier to justify your controls to employees, regulators, and insurers.

Ready to improve your HAVS assessments with real data? Get in touch with Velocity Safety to book your measurement session.