What is Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)?

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a condition that can affect the vascular, neurological and muscular systems of the hands.

Regular exposure to high frequency vibrating hand tools/equipment (dependent upon the magnitude, frequency, and duration) such as jackhammers, chisels, chainsaws, sanders, grinders, drills etc., increases the risk of developing HAVS.

Some of the trades/industries in which workers are at risk include construction, forestry, foundry, assembly manufacturing, mining and agriculture.

HAVS is characterized by

Bluish discoloration (cyanosis) of the skin of fingers and hands.
Whitening (blanching) of fingertips (especially with colder temperatures). (Fig. 1)
Numbness, with or without tingling.
Decreased grip strength and sense of touch.

havsHandsVERTweb — Fig 1: Whitening of Fingertips

Ergonomic Risk Factors

FORCE

Forceful exertions (i.e. lifting,
carrying, gripping, etc.)
Glove use
Grip type

POSTURE

Postures that deviate from neutral (e.g. reaching, twisting,bending, etc.)

TEMPERATURE

Regular exposure to high frequency vibrating hand tools/equipment (125-400 Hz range)
Impulse vibration
Long term exposures to low
intensity vibration

VIBRATION

Regular exposure to high frequency vibrating hand tools/equipment (125-400 Hz range)
Impulse vibration
Long term exposures to low
intensity vibration

inadequate
recovery time

Sustained muscle contractions without rest, may lead to muscle fatigue which then requires an increased grip force to complete the task
Tense muscles can increase the transmission of vibration

COMBINATION EFFECT

Many or all of the risk factors act synergistically to increase the risk of HAVS

Specific Recommendations for Prevention

Prior to purchasing vibrating tools, be aware of vibration levels to determine level of risk.
Eliminate or minimize exposure to vibration.
Perform regular preventative maintenance.
Provide jigs designed to minimize the need to hold vibrating surfaces.
Provide anti-vibration handles/sleeves.
Implement a work/rest schedule to minimize vibration exposure.
Minimize forceful grasps.
Use proper fitting personal protective equipment such as anti-vibration gloves (ISO approved).
Educate workers (or yourself) on how to recognize:
Symptoms (like finger tingling, numbness, and finger blanching).
Associated risks of vibration exposure.
Possible sources of vibration in the workplace.
Health effects of working in cold temperatures.