Hand-arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is the main concern posed by exposure to vibration. Commonly manifesting as vibration white finger or carpal tunnel syndrome, HAVS is caused by the transfer of vibration through a workers’ hands and arms, in as little as 6 months. HAVS isn’t an illness as such, but actually the result of damage to nerves, blood vessels and joints caused by vibration exposure. While the symptoms of HAVS can be prevented, they cannot be cured. So once symptoms start to develop, they are permanent and can’t be reversed. That’s why it’s so important to learn about the risks of HAVS—and here at PowerPlus, we can provide you with everything you need to know with our HAVS course.

Who should take this course?

This course is suitable for anybody who is using hand-held power tools (such as grinders or road breakers), hand-guided equipment (such as powered lawnmowers or pedestrian controlled floor saws) or hand-fed machines (such as pedestal grinders or forge hammers). It is also applicable for the following industries; construction and civil work, engineering, forestry, foundries, motor vehicle manufacture and repair, maintenance of parks, gardens, and verges, shipbuilding and ship repair and utilities (for example gas, water, and telecommunications).

Course and timings

The course, which lasts approximately 29 minutes in total, is split into five sections.