Hand Arm Vibration Measurement and Assessment
Hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and vibration white finger are often caused by using hand held vibrating tools and equipment. It can also be caused by holding an item or material during a process where the vibration is transmitted through the work piece.
It’s based on two main factors:
- The vibration magnitude of the tool (Measured in m/s²)
- The duration of exposure
Ask yourself, do you honestly know how long exactly you use your tools? And do you know the exact vibration magnitude of the tool or process? If the answer is no then let Velocity Safety help.
Examples of tools and processes that can cause human transmitted vibration:
- Using handheld tools such as breakers, SDS hammer drill, core drills and percussion drills.
- Using scabblers
- Using air tools in a workshop or for manufacturing.
- Grinding and sanding
- Using impact drivers and wrenches
- Using power saws, reciprocating saws, jigsaws and circular saws.
- Using bench mounted equipment whereby there is vibration transmitted through the workpiece.
HAVS Assessment: What you need to know
Vibration must be measured in accordance with BS EN ISO 5349 and BS 8041. There is no hand held or wrist mounted device that can accurately measure the vibration magnitude despite some manufacturers or suppliers information. These are generally tool timers that can be used to monitor trigger time.
Accurate vibration measurement inline with BS EN 5349 and BS 8041 must be undertaken by attaching a tri-axial vibration accelerometer to generally the hand position of the tool. When it is in use the meter will provide a measurement in the X, Y and Z axis.
Our Hand-Arm Vibration Assessment Process
HAVS isn’t just a paperwork risk – it’s a life-changing condition if exposure isn’t managed properly. Here’s how we assess, measure, and help you stay compliant:
1. Tool & Task Inventory
We ask you to provide a list of equipment used and identify the process or accessory used.
2. Vibration Exposure Monitoring
Using a calibrated vibration meter and tri axial accelerometer block we measure real-time vibration levels for each tool while in use – capturing exact like for like realistic operator exposure.
3. Trigger Time & Exposure Logging
We combine vibration magnitude with tool use duration (trigger time) to calculate daily exposure levels in line with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005.
4. Exposure Risk Analysis
Results are benchmarked against Exposure Action Values (EAV) and Exposure Limit Values (ELV) to identify high-risk roles or tools.
5. Report
You receive a detailed report for each item and process with vibration magnitude results.
Worried about exposure levels? We’ll help you reduce the risk with practical, evidence-based recommendations.
Why choose Velocity Safety Ltd
Why choose Velocity Safety Ltd for Hand Arm Vibration Measurement and Assessment requirements
- Our technicians have received specific training in the measurement of human transmitted vibration.
- Over 12 years experience in the health and safety industry.
- Fully demonstrate compliance with
- Fully Insured.
- Colour coding and labelling if requested
- We use fully calibrated meters calibrated every 12 months.
- Our reports fully comply with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations
- Consultants that have real industry experience in a wide variety of hand held tools and equipment
- Calibrated instrumentation from leading brands such as Svantek and Larson Davis
- We’re a partner with industry leading HAVi.
What Others Say About Us…
Site managers tell us our HAVS assessments make it easier to protect workers, satisfy auditors, and plan effective controls.
“After many issues with the inspectors from our insurer I contacted Ross to quote. He saved us just over £3000 in the first year. He also does weekends for us to reduce downtime.”
Joe, Civils Company Midlands
“After spending £20k purchasing the wrong powered air units for our factory on our previous PPE supplier/H&S advisors recommendations, Ross came in and told us what we needed, why we needed it and what cost savings could be had over the life of the equipment. I just wish we found him sooner.”
David, Engineering Company North West
“Great Service, Great guy nothing is too much trouble.”
John, Groundworks Company North West
Our Services:
- Tool and Process “human vibration” measurement
- Trigger time monitoring
- HAVS risk assessment
- HAVS audit
- HAVS Consultancy
- Supply of HAVS measurement equipment, tool timers and Bluetooth devices
- Whole Body Vibration (WBV) measurements and assessments also available
Frequently Asked Questions – Hand-Arm Vibration Assessment
Still unclear on when and why you need a HAV assessment? Here are the most common queries we get:
What is HAVS and why does it matter?
HAVS (Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome) is a serious condition caused by regular use of vibrating tools. It’s irreversible – and a major cause of claims, enforcement action, and early retirement.
Who needs a HAV assessment?
If your staff use vibrating tools daily or even weekly, you have a legal duty to assess exposure under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005.
How often should assessments be done?
Annually is best practice – or sooner if new equipment is introduced, working practices change, or symptoms are reported.
What’s the difference between EAV and ELV?
- EAV = Exposure Action Value (2.5 m/s² A(8))
- ELV = Exposure Limit Value (5 m/s² A(8))
If staff hit the EAV, you must take action. Hitting the ELV is a legal limit – exposure must be reduced and controls implemented.
Do you assess each tool individually?
Yes. We measure vibration levels of individual tools and how long each one is typically used. This gives an accurate total daily exposure score.
Can this help reduce insurance or claim risks?
Absolutely. Documented HAV assessments are essential for defending against claims and proving compliance during audits or inspections.
Can you help set up a long-term control plan?
Yes. We provide recommendations on tool rotation, exposure management, and even staff training if needed.
Is this the same as a health surveillance programme?
No – but it supports one. We help you understand the risk. You’ll still need to put health surveillance in place if your staff exceed the EAV.
Can you carry out HAV testing near me?
Absolutely. We perform Hand Arm Vibration (HAV) assessments across the UK – but we’re especially active in the North West, where industrial and engineering businesses in areas like Burnley, Preston, and Rochdale rely on us to test tools, protect workers, and reduce long-term health risks. Site visits or batch testing both available.
Whatever your Hand Arm Vibration (HAVS) Measurement and Assessment requirements, you can be sure your in honest, reliable and safe hands.
Contact Velocity Safety today 01254 933 486 or Contact Us
Get a HAVS Risk Assessment
Protect your team from vibration-related injuries. Our HAV monitoring and exposure assessments help you meet Control of Vibration at Work Regs – with clear advice and actionable reports.
01254 933 486
info@velocitysafety.co.uk
Velocity Safety
Unit 7 Whitebirk Enterprise Centre,
Lower Phillips Road
Blackburn,
Lancashire
BB1 5UD
