An organisation in the North of England have recently received a fine of £50,000 after 15 employees developed Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome.
It seems that HAVS is still a big issue for many companies in the UK; and the question is yet again being asked around how to control vibration exposure in the workplace. This begs another question, what is the best way to monitor vibration exposure?
Within the industry, Earlsmere are the UK's leading on-site vibration testing company. There are many different options when it comes to monitoring i.e, log books, safety tags and on-tool trigger time devices. Our approach is that every tool must be tested in accordance with ISO 5349 to obtain the "real-life" data, as opposed to manufacturer data (which cannot be used for risk assessment purposes). These real-life readings can then be used to monitor exposure, Earlsmere offer any of the three options listed above.
The question still stands, what is the best way?
The simple answer is, there is no best way. There is no legal requirement under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations for continual monitoring and recording of vibration exposure. With this in mind, many of our clients choose to use the "annual testing" route, with a safety tag and log book for monitoring. Whilst the technology for devices capable of continual monitoring are an impressive feat, it is difficult to make the case for continual monitoring due to absence of this requirement in the legislation.
Earlsmere's Limpet is the most cost-effective on-tool vibration monitoring device on the market, given it's cloud-based system and the use of RFID technology. Limpet does not require base-stations or recharging bays, like many other devices. If you think Limpet is right for you, we can discuss whether you have an issue with HAVS or not. Many of our clients find that they are better suited to monitor their exposure via other options (log books and safety tags).
