(HAVS) – £140K Fine for Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome

A £140,000 fine was recently issued after two workers were diagnosed with Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), also known as HAV disease, following long-term exposure to vibrating tools. This court case serves as a crucial reminder of the risks posed by HAV on construction and maintenance sites. While the specific employer was held accountable, the incident highlights the broader, often neglected issue of HAVS in the construction industry.

This blog post explores what HAVS is, the complications it causes, and most importantly—what employers, supervisors, and workers can do to stay safe and prevent this debilitating condition.

What Is Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) and How Does It Affect Workers?

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), or HAV disease, is a serious health condition caused by frequent and prolonged exposure to vibrating power tools. It affects the nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and joints in the hands and arms, leading to painful, often irreversible damage.

The condition develops gradually, but if left unaddressed, the impact can be lifelong. Symptoms of HAVS include:

• Tingling or numbness in the fingers
• Reduced strength and grip
• Painful joints
• Loss of fine motor control
• Blanching (fingers turning white in the cold – a sign of poor circulation)

HAVS is common in occupations where workers use strimmers, hedge trimmers, grinders, drills, mowers, and other handheld equipment for extended periods. Without proper training, protective measures, and health surveillance, the damage can be permanent.

The Real-Life Impact of HAVS Disease on Workers

In the recent case, two estate maintenance workers developed HAVS after repeatedly using vibrating tools for everyday tasks over a five-year period. These tasks included grass cutting, hedge trimming, weeding, and litter picking—activities often underestimated in terms of vibration exposure.

One of the affected workers, aged 60, reported that 90% of his workday was spent using vibrating equipment. He described the devastating impact HAVS has had on his life:

“I’ve lost my fine motor skills. I can’t pick up small objects, button a shirt, or use a knife and fork properly. The pain keeps me awake at night. I can’t even hold my grandchildren without fear of dropping them.”

This personal account underscores the human cost of failing to manage HAV risks effectively on construction and maintenance sites.

What Went Wrong in This Case?

An investigation found several failings by the employer that led to the court-imposed fine. These included:

• No vibration risk assessment was conducted
• Exposure levels were not monitored or recorded
• Workers received no training on the risks of vibrating tools
• No system of health surveillance was in place to identify early symptoms

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) concluded that the risks were both foreseeable and preventable. The court found the employer guilty of breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, resulting in a £140,000 fine and additional legal costs.

Why Does HAVS Disease Still Happen?

HAVS disease is preventable, yet it remains widespread in industries like construction, landscaping, and maintenance. In many cases, the issue arises from a lack of awareness and training, particularly around:

• What tools pose a risk of HAVS
• How long is “too long” to use vibrating tools
• The importance of task rotation and limiting exposure
• The need for early reporting of symptoms

   

Often, employers and supervisors assume that health and safety training is a one-time event, rather than an ongoing responsibility. However, recognizing symptoms early, understanding the risks, and using tools safely can make the difference between a healthy worker and a lifelong injury.

How Construction Sites Can Stay Safe and Prevent HAVS Disease

To reduce the risk of HAVS on site, employers and supervisors must take a proactive approach. Key steps include:

1. Conduct Vibration Risk Assessments

Identify which tasks involve exposure to vibration and assess how long workers are using tools each day. This assessment should form the basis for your HAVS action plan.

2. Limit Exposure Times and Use Job Rotation

Use job rotation to avoid having workers use vibrating tools for extended periods. Provide adequate rest breaks and ensure tools are only used when necessary to avoid HAVS-related health issues.

3. Use Low-Vibration Tools to Minimise HAVS Risks

Choosing low-vibration equipment is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of HAVS disease. Additionally, regular maintenance of tools can help reduce vibration levels, further protecting workers from long-term damage.

4. Provide Ongoing Health and Safety Training

Ensure all workers understand the risks of HAVS, how to use tools safely, and what symptoms to watch for. Training should be refreshed regularly and tailored to job roles.

5. Implement Health Surveillance for Early Detection

Monitor your workforce for early signs of HAVS disease. Regular health surveillance can identify early symptoms and allow for prompt intervention, preventing permanent damage.

Safe2Site Online Training: Accessible, Compliant, and Practical for Preventing HAVS

One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve health and safety awareness is through accessible online training. Safe2Site offers two trusted options for workers and supervisors:

🎓 Safe2Site Online CSCS Green Card Course for Labourers

This fully online course covers key health and safety principles, including:

• Tool and equipment safety
• PPE use
• Vibration awareness and safety
• Manual handling
• Site rules and responsibilities

It’s the fastest route to gaining a CSCS Green Labourer Card, allowing you to work legally and safely on UK construction sites.

🔗 Learn more: Safe2Site CSCS Course

Safe2Site Supervision Training: Alternative to SSSTS

For supervisors and site managers, the Safe2Site Supervision Training is a flexible alternative to the SSSTS course. This training is ideal for anyone with health and safety responsibilities, and it includes:

• Legal duties for controlling vibration risks
• Risk assessments and incident management
• Controlling workplace hazards like HAVS disease

By completing this course, supervisors can help ensure their sites remain safe from HAV and other health risks.

🔗 Learn more: Safe2Site Supervision Training

Preventing HAVS and Protecting Workers’ Health

The recent case is a stark reminder of the serious consequences of failing to manage vibration risks on construction and maintenance sites. HAVS disease is entirely preventable, and with the right training, tools, and monitoring, employers can protect their workers and avoid costly fines.

By implementing effective vibration risk assessments, using low-vibration tools, rotating tasks, and providing comprehensive health surveillance, employers can ensure their workers remain safe from Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).

Whether you’re a labourer, a supervisor, or responsible for site safety, taking proactive steps to prevent HAVS will safeguard your team’s health and ensure compliance with safety regulations.