What is hand arm vibration syndrome?

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) formerly known as Vibration White Finger (VWF) is a condition caused by exposure of the hands and arms to excessive vibration as a result of using handheld tools such as pneumatic drills, grinders, chipping hammers and the like.

HAVS has two main components, namely damage to the blood vessels and damage to the nerves of the hands and arms.  Symptoms include loss of grip strength in the hands, and loss of sensation, numbness and tingling in the fingers.  The fingers typically go white when exposed to cold, then become red and painful on recovery.  The condition is preventable but once the damage is done the nerve damage is permanent, although the damage to the blood vessels can reverse to some extent if the exposure to vibration ends.

Regulations

The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 were introduced in the UK to protect workers from excessive exposure to vibration at work and these came into force on 6th July 2005.  However, despite this legislation, many employees are still exposed to vibration levels which cause damage. 

The Regulations require employers to take steps to minimise the risk to their employees.  Improved tool design and maintenance and reduction of the amount of time using such tools will reduce the risks.  Gloves keeping the hands warm will reduce the amount of blanching (whiting) but there is no evidence they can assist in preventing the condition.  Employers should be looking to introduce alternative processes, equipment or working methods to reduce exposure and thus reduce the risk to employees.  They should also be regularly monitoring the health of staff to ensure any issues are detected and dealt with at an early stage.