In order to prevent disability, the employer’s duties are to reduce the risks from vibration to the lowest level reasonably practicable and to reduce exposure to as low as is reasonably practicable if it is above the EAV. Exposures must not exceed the ELV. By complying with the Vibration Regulations, disability from HAVS and vibration-related CTS will be prevented. Some people will develop early signs and symptoms of HAVS or CTS even at low exposures (for example, if they are susceptible to vibration injury and are regularly exposed to vibration at around the exposure action value, usually for some years). A health surveillance scheme should identify any harm early on, so appropriate action at this point will prevent disability.
Certain cases of HAVS and all cases of vibration- related CTS must be reported to HSE in accordance with the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR).
For powered hand-tools, regular and frequent use of modern, well-designed, well-maintained tools is likely to result in exposure at or above the EAV after:
• the use of a hammer action tool for about 15 minutes; or
• the use of non-hammer action tools for about one hour.
The exposure limit value is likely to be reached after: • use of a hammer action tool for about one hour; or
• use of non-hammer action tools for about four hours.
It may be necessary to put a health surveillance programme in place. This will help reduce the costs of managing ill health, lower absence rates and prevent and remove health risks arising in the workplace. External audits such as BSG inspections help give an independent assessment of management systems, whilst helping the business to meet its statutory responsibilities and maintain a healthy workforce.
www.bsgltd.co.uk www.tomorrowshs.com 7
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24