Hand-arm vibration management checklist

When workers use hand-held, hand-guided or hand-fed vibrating equipment there’s a risk of damage to blood vessels and nerves in the hands and forearms. Use our checklist to review your arrangements and minimise the risk.

Why do you need it?

Exposure to hand-arm vibration can lead to two conditions: (1) carpal tunnel syndrome; and (2) hand-arm vibration syndrome. Both are taken very seriously by the HSE which requires that any instances are reported under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013.

The subject is covered in specific legislation, i.e. the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005. All employers with staff exposed to hand-arm vibration should consider how to comply and the easiest way to do this is with our Hand-arm Vibration Checklist, which is based on legislation and HSE guidance.

How to use it

To prepare for this evaluation gather information such as instruction manuals for hand-held vibrating tools, a staff list with job titles and some background knowledge about hand-arm vibration. By working through the checklist you will identify weaknesses and action points. Mark each question “Yes”, “No”, or “N/A”, i.e. not applicable. Where you tick the “F/I” column write in the “Further information” box at the end.