Hand-arm vibration exposure is a serious workplace risk, especially for workers using power tools such as drills, grinders, and sanders. Long-term exposure can lead to Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), a serious condition that causes permanent nerve and circulatory damage.
To comply with work regulations and protect employees, employers must monitor vibration levels and ensure they stay within legal exposure limits. The HAVS calculator is a useful tool for measuring daily vibration exposure, helping businesses take immediate action to prevent injury.
What is Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)?
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a serious condition caused by prolonged exposure to vibration from power tools and machinery. It can lead to permanent damage to blood vessels, nerves, and joints, resulting in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and loss of grip strength. Commonly affected workers include those in foundries, fettling, ship repair industry, motor companies, and water jetting operations.
Employers must monitor workers’ daily vibration exposure and ensure they stay within the legal limits:
Daily Exposure Action Value (EAV): 2.5 m/s² A(8) – At this level, employers must introduce measures to reduce exposure.
Daily Exposure Limit Value (ELV): 5 m/s² A(8) – This is the maximum allowable exposure in a single workday.
How do you calculate hand-arm vibration exposure?
To calculate hand-arm vibration exposure, multiply the tool’s vibration magnitude (m/s²) by the duration of use. Use an HSE HAVS calculator to determine daily exposure levels, compare them to the EAV (2.5 m/s² A(8)) and ELV (5 m/s² A(8)), and take immediate action if limits are exceeded.
Hand Arm Vibration Calculator
We have created a useful calculator that you can use to work out an employee’s daily vibration exposure.
Daily exposure in m/s² A(8): Total exposure points:
How to Use the HSE HAVS Calculator
The HAVS calculator is a simple tool that helps employers assess workers' vibration levels based on:
Tool name – Identify the tool used (e.g., drill, grinder, or sander).
Vibration magnitude – Enter the tool’s vibration rating (m/s²), found in the manufacturer’s manual.
Exposure time – Input the duration of use in hours/minutes.
The calculator will then compute:
Total exposure points – Representing overall vibration risk.
Daily exposure in m/s² A(8) – Indicating whether the worker is within safe limits or exceeding the exposure calculator thresholds.
Why Regular Monitoring Matters
Accurate vibration measurement and regular monitoring are crucial for preventing HAVS. Many companies, particularly in motor companies, foundries, and ship repair industries, rely on tools like the HSE vibration calculator to ensure compliance with UK work regulations.
Employers should also consider using Excel-based HAVS charts or automated tracking systems to document exposure over time. Additionally, following codes of practice for tool maintenance and job rotation can further reduce risks.
Take Action: Protect Workers from HAVS
To stay compliant with HSE regulations, businesses should:
Use a hand-arm vibration calculator for accurate risk assessment.
Implement controls to reduce exposure levels, such as vibration-damping handles.
Provide vibration awareness training to educate workers on best practices.
For further guidance on HAVS, vibration levels, and safety executive recommendations, explore our HAVS chart UK and Vibration Awareness Training Course.
Bethany is a freelance content writer and has produced articles for the Commodious Knowledge Bank since 2023. She has written about various health and safety topics, from asbestos to wellness in the workplace.
Vibration
Hazards
Health and Safety
Risk Assessment
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document.getElementById("message").innerHTML = "Exposure is above the EAV, which means that action is required to control exposure.";
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document.getElementById("message").innerHTML = "Exposure is below the EAV, which means that it is safe to continue the work in its current form.";
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