Workers in the vehicle conversion business are amongst almost two million people considered to be at risk of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) in the UK, according to the Health and Safety Executive. HAVS is a painful, disabling and irreversible condition that creeps up slowly on sufferers – and by the time symptoms appear the damage has already been done. Information from leading adhesive tape specialist tesa, sets out the actions employers and employees can take to prevent it when converting vehicles.
What is HAVS and what causes it?
HAVS results from vibration transmitted into the hands and arms when using hand-held power tools, or hand-guided machinery, or holding workpieces while working on them with vibrating equipment. In vehicle converting, the danger typically comes from drilling holes to fit mechanical fasteners such as rivets, bolts and screws, from use of rivet guns and from grinding and sanding to smooth out welds. Elsewhere, vibration sources range from saws and road breakers to floor polishers and garden tools.
Vibration gradually damages the nerves, blood vessels, muscles, joints and bones. How badly the tool user is affected depends on the vibration’s intensity and the daily duration of exposure. Initially unnoticeable, its effects continue to grow and can ultimately lead to permanent disability.
Read more on how to reduce or prevent the symptoms of HAVS on our website here tesa.co.uk/HAVS