HAND ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME (HAVS)

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome is a widespread industrial disease that can lead to serious, permanent injury and disability. It is caused by regular exposure to vibration, particularly from hand guided tools and vibrating hand tools.

Policy: At Greenplant. we are committed to advising and assisting all our customers on the impact of vibration within their organisations. We will ensure that whenever possible we only supply equipment that is ‘best in class’ with the lowest amount of vibration. This will ensure that the operator is exposed to the smallest level of vibration. All of our equipment that is subject to vibration, has been clearly marked with the appropriate sticker and confirmation of the exact vibration levels are held at the branch.

Manufacturers identify vibration levels in units of metres per second squared (m/s2), the greater the figure, the greater the risk to the user.

The longer the user is exposed to vibration, the greater the risk. The HSE has identified a threshold value of 5m/s2 averaged over an eight hour day, as the maximum acceptable without preventative measures and health surveillance.

Regulations
Falls are the biggest cause of workplace death and injuries. The Working at Height Regulations which came into force in 2005 have been created to prevent these injuries and deaths. These regulations apply to all work at height where there is a risk of a fall liable to cause personal injury.
Employers (or Duty Holders) are required to do all that is reasonably practicable to prevent anyone falling by

1. Avoiding working at height where possible.
2. Using equipment or other measures to prevent falls where working at height cannot be avoided.
3. Using equipment or other measures to minimise the distance and consequences should a fall occur, where risks of falls cannot be eliminated.

The regulations require duty holders to ensure

1. All work at height is properly planned and organised.
2. All work at height takes account of the weather conditions that could endanger health and safety.
3. Those involved in working at height are trained and competent.
4. The working area is safe.
5. Equipment for working at height is appropriately inspected.
6. The risks from fragile surfaces are properly controlled and the risks from falling objects are properly controlled.

When planning working at height you need to justify the type of equipment used; this will involve performing a risk assessment. For short duration light work, a stepladder or leaning ladder may be suitable, but where work is for a longer duration and involves heavier work and the need for two free hands, a tower or access platform may be more appropriate.
At Greenplant. we are continually reviewing and updating our fleet to enable us to offer our customers the most appropriate access equipment for working at height. Our trained staff will be able to advise you on the benefits of each item within our range.

What are the regulations and how do they affect me? The Control of Noise Regulations 2005 came into force in 2006. The aim of the regulations is to ensure workers hearing is protected from excessive noise within the workplace, which could result in loss of hearing. Employers must assess the risk to the workforce’s health if noise exceeds 80 decibels. Employers must provide hearing protection if noise exceeds 85 decibels. To combat the affect of noise within the workplace Greenplant. carries a full range of hearing protection, and silenced machines.

Where there is a risk of exposure to fumes or dust to the workforce the employer must minimise or control the risk. Staff must also be provided with the relevant information and where necessary training.

Greenplant. stock a range of dust extraction equipment for hire to use with power tools and a full range of dust masks for sale.