Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) – Overview & Occupational Health Support
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a preventable but irreversible condition caused by prolonged exposure to vibrating tools and machinery. Employers are legally required to protect employees from vibration risks and provide appropriate health surveillance where exposure may cause harm.
ARC Medicals supports employers with HAVS health surveillance, early detection, and clear guidance to remain fully compliant with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005.
What is HAVS?
HAVS affects blood vessels, nerves, and joints of the hand and arm. It develops over time through regular use of vibrating equipment such as drills, grinders, compactors, saws, and powered machinery.
If untreated, symptoms will worsen and can result in permanent disability.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Tingling, numbness or loss of feeling in fingers
- Reduced grip strength or difficulty holding tools
- Blanching (“white finger”) triggered by cold or vibration
- Pain, reduced dexterity, and loss of fine motor control
Early identification is essential to prevent long-term harm.🔍 What is HAVS?
HAVS affects blood vessels, nerves, and joints of the hand and arm. It develops over time through regular use of vibrating equipment such as drills, grinders, compactors, saws, and powered machinery.
If untreated, symptoms will worsen and can result in permanent disability.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Tingling, numbness or loss of feeling in fingers
- Reduced grip strength or difficulty holding tools
- Blanching (“white finger”) triggered by cold or vibration
- Pain, reduced dexterity, and loss of fine motor control
Early identification is essential to prevent long-term harm.
Your Legal Duty as an Employer
Employers must assess vibration exposure in the workplace and implement controls to reduce risk. Where exposure is at or above action levels, health surveillance is a legal requirement.
Health surveillance for HAVS should follow a tiered approach:
| Tier | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Initial screening questionnaire for all at-risk employees |
| Tier 2 | Follow-up assessment where symptoms are reported |
| Tier 3 | Clinical evaluation by a qualified clinician |
| Tier 4 | Formal HAVS diagnosis and staging |
| Tier 5 | Review & ongoing surveillance for diagnosed cases |
ARC Medicals can support your business through the full process and refer to specialist clinicians where required.
Which Workers Are at Risk?
HAVS is common in industries including:
- Construction & Civil Engineering
- Manufacturing & Fabrication
- Grounds Maintenance & Landscaping
- Utilities, Rail & Highways
- Automotive & Engineering
- Local Authorities & Public Sector Services
If employees regularly use vibrating tools, annual screening is strongly recommended.
How ARC Medicals Can Help
ARC Medicals offers a full HAVS health surveillance service tailored to your risk levels and workforce size. Our service includes:
- Tier 1 & 2 assessments for early detection
- Risk-based screening programmes for small and large teams
- Employer guidance on exposure management and control measures
- Clear reporting to support health & safety compliance
- On-site or clinic-based appointment options
Where escalation is required, we provide referrals for Tier 3/4 clinical assessment and diagnosis.
Why Early Detection Matters
Identifying HAVS early:
- Protects employee health
- Prevents irreversible damage
- Reduces sickness absence and lost productivity
- Demonstrates regulatory compliance and duty of care
- Helps prevent enforcement action or compensation claims
Get Support With HAVS Health Surveillance
ARC Medicals partners with businesses across South Wales to deliver reliable, compliant, and confidential HAVS assessments.
Contact us to discuss your requirements or arrange a HAVS health surveillance programme:
- medicals@thearcgroup.co.uk
- 01443 303003
