Bad vibrations: BSIF highlights syndrome affecting UK workforce

New BSIF campaign on hand-arm vibration syndrome

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has launched a national campaign called Bad Vibrations to raise awareness of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS).

According to the BSIF, the campaign provides an accessible guide to help workers, employers and safety managers understand the causes of HAVS, the tools most likely to contribute, and how exposure can be reduced.

The organisation reported that nearly 2 million people in the UK are at risk of HAVS due to repeated use of vibrating tools.

It added that the condition, sometimes known as vibration white finger, is serious and disabling but preventable if exposure is controlled early.

BSIF explained that the campaign was developed by its Measurement and Instrumentation Special Interest Group, which includes test houses, certification bodies, manufacturers and distributors. The group aimed to simplify the large amount of existing technical literature into a practical guide for those working with vibration risks.

The federation stated that the resource is available to all sectors where vibrating tools are used, with the goal of improving awareness and reducing new cases of HAVS.

Risks and prevalence of HAVS in the UK

BSIF outlined that HAVS results from long-term exposure to vibration, damaging nerves, blood vessels and joints in the hands and arms.

It said the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reported 215 new cases of HAVS in 2023, along with 115 cases of carpal tunnel syndrome.

According to the federation, industries most commonly affected include construction, mining, engineering, shipbuilding and forestry.

The organisation noted that while HAVS is incurable once established, it is entirely preventable through effective controls and monitoring.

It also indicated that symptoms can persist for years, making prevention essential to long-term workforce health.

Tools most associated with vibration hazards

The BSIF guide explained that certain hand-held tools present higher risks for developing HAVS.

It listed equipment such as road breakers, hammer drills, angle grinders, pneumatic hammers, chainsaws, sanders, impact wrenches, drills and lawnmowers.

The group advised that prolonged use of these tools increases the likelihood of vibration exposure reaching harmful levels.

It added that proper maintenance of equipment is an essential measure to limit unnecessary vibration.

BSIF also recommended that duty holders and employers regularly assess whether low-vibration alternatives or automation options are available for high-risk tasks.

Control measures and workplace responsibilities

According to BSIF, employers have legal duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to assess and control risks from vibration exposure.

The federation explained that duty holders must appoint a competent person to evaluate risks and implement controls where exposure may be excessive.

It outlined a hierarchy of measures, beginning with eliminating the hazard altogether where possible.

If elimination is not achievable, the guidance recommended substituting with safer methods, using low-vibration equipment, training staff on safe use, adjusting work schedules to limit exposure, and only finally relying on personal protective equipment.

The group commented that regular measurement and monitoring of vibration levels is a valuable way to ensure safe limits are maintained.

Standards and protective measures

BSIF highlighted that a range of standards apply to vibration measurement and monitoring.

It referenced BS EN ISO 8041-1:2017, which sets requirements for vibration measurement instruments, and BS EN ISO 5349-2001, which covers evaluation of human exposure to vibration in workplaces.

The organisation also pointed to HSE guidance in the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, which includes exposure calculators and ready reckoners for employers.

BSIF noted that while anti-vibration gloves are sometimes marketed, they have limited effectiveness in many practical applications. It advised that employers consult HSE guidance before using gloves as a control measure.

The federation added that other factors, such as ensuring workers are kept warm in cold environments, can reduce the risk of vibration-related health effects.

Guidance resources and health surveillance

BSIF explained that Bad Vibrations includes links to HSE resources, safety product guides and generic advice on prevention.

It advised that regular health surveillance is vital to identify early signs of HAVS and allow interventions before damage becomes permanent.

The group emphasised that HAVS remains disabling and irreversible once established, but new cases can be avoided if employers adopt effective measures.

The organisation stated that a strong safety programme benefits both employees and businesses by maintaining workforce health and reducing costs associated with occupational illness.

It added that the campaign’s long-term aim is to prevent new cases of HAVS and support safer use of tools across UK industries.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The BSIF campaign is directly relevant for fire and safety professionals as many firefighting, rescue and maintenance tasks involve vibrating tools.

Awareness of HAVS risks ensures that tool selection, work schedules and training can be managed to limit exposure.

Fire service leaders and safety managers can use the guidance to review risk assessments and compliance with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005.

Integrating HAVS awareness into broader health and safety strategies helps protect personnel and maintain operational capacity.

BSIF launches bad vibrations campaign on HAVS in the UK: Summary

The British Safety Industry Federation has launched the Bad Vibrations campaign.

The campaign provides a guide to hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS).

Nearly 2 million people in the UK are at risk of HAVS.

HAVS is linked to prolonged use of vibrating tools.

HSE reported 215 new HAVS cases in 2023.

Construction, mining, forestry and engineering are among affected industries.

The campaign outlines tools most associated with HAVS risk.

Road breakers, hammer drills, grinders and chainsaws are highlighted.

Employers must assess and control exposure under UK law.

Control measures include substitution, low-vibration equipment and training.

Monitoring equipment and exposure calculators are available.

Standards referenced include BS EN ISO 8041-1:2017 and BS EN ISO 5349-2001.

Anti-vibration gloves have limited effectiveness.

HAVS is irreversible but entirely preventable.

BSIF said regular health surveillance is essential.

The campaign links to HSE resources and guidance.

Its aim is to reduce new cases of HAVS across UK workplaces.