A West Midlands chemical manufacturer has been fined £100,000 after repeated reports of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome, or HAVS, were raised by workers. The Health and Safety Executive found that the company failed to manage vibration risks from powered tools and did not provide adequate controls or surveillance. The prosecution followed nine reports of vibration-related injury (Source: press.hse.gov.uk.)
Background to HAVS
HAVS is an irreversible occupational condition caused by prolonged use of vibrating tools. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling and loss of dexterity. Left unchecked, HAVS can cause permanent disability and significantly reduce a worker’s quality of life. Effective management depends on tool selection, exposure measurement, rotation of tasks and health surveillance.
Findings from the HSE investigation
The HSE probe identified multiple years of exposure and insufficient controls. Specific failures included inadequate assessment of exposure, lack of appropriate tool maintenance and the absence of effective health surveillance to detect early signs of HAVS. The regulator determined that these omissions allowed avoidable harm to occur and therefore pursued prosecution.
Control measures employers must apply
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Carry out a vibration risk assessment that quantifies exposure using standard methods.
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Implement control hierarchies: eliminate vibration where possible, substitute with lower vibration tools, and apply engineering controls.
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Limit exposure time through job rotation and administrative controls.
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Introduce a robust maintenance regime to ensure tools are in safe working order and fitted with appropriate damping.
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Provide health surveillance for workers and keep clear records so early intervention is possible.
Why enforcement sends a message
This prosecution underlines that long standing exposure and failure to act will attract regulatory action and substantial penalties. HAVS is preventable when employers apply recognised control measures and prioritise early detection. The case should prompt safety leaders to audit tool fleets, exposure patterns and surveillance records without delay.
