Risk Assessment: Vibrating Equipment¶
Document Information
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Document Reference | RA15 |
| Issue Number | 2 |
| Issue Date | 1 June 2026 |
| Next Review | 1 June 2027 |
| Prepared By | Sean Ashton |
| Approved By | Aaron Mason, Director |
Risk Assessment Table¶
| Activity/Process | Hazard | Who/What Affected | Existing Controls | Pre-Control Risk (S/L/R) | New Controls Required | Post-Control Risk (S/L/R) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use of vibration emitting tools | Insufficient information and training | Site personnel may develop HAVS due to lack of knowledge | • All operatives provided with briefing on hand arm vibration • Causes, symptoms, and prevention of HAVS covered • Regular toolbox talks on proper equipment use |
3/3/9 (Moderate) | • Update training materials with latest HSE guidance • Refresher training annually to all operators Leanne Mason, ongoing |
3/2/6 (Moderate) |
| Use of vibration emitting tools | Aggravating existing HAVS condition | Site personnel with pre-existing HAVS may experience worsening symptoms | • HAVS questionnaire for all new starters • Individual risk assessment for vulnerable employees • Health surveillance provided where required |
4/3/12 (High) | • Implement quarterly medical reviews for affected personnel • Create digital tracking system for monitoring exposure HR Department, within 3 months |
4/2/8 (Moderate) |
| Use of vibration emitting tools | Poorly maintained equipment | Site personnel exposed to higher vibration levels from worn equipment | • Regular equipment checks conducted • High vibration tools removed from service • Tools maintained in good condition • Worn parts replaced promptly |
3/3/9 (Moderate) | • Implement tagged inspection system with monthly verification • Create maintenance log for each piece of equipment • Provide training to supervisors on equipment inspection Site Supervisor, within 1 month |
3/2/6 (Moderate) |
| Use of vibration emitting tools | Unsuitable equipment | Site personnel exposed to unnecessary vibration from incorrect tool selection | • Consideration given to minimizing vibration when selecting equipment • Low-vibration tools preferentially selected when available |
3/3/9 (Moderate) | • Develop procurement policy prioritizing low-vibration equipment • Create database of vibration levels for all current equipment Procurement Department, within 2 months |
3/2/6 (Moderate) |
| Use of vibration emitting tools | Excessive vibration exposure | Site personnel may develop HAVS from prolonged tool use | • Work planned to avoid hand-held vibrating equipment where possible • Users briefed on acceptable trigger times • Actual vibration exposure recorded and monitored • Job rotation technique used to limit individual exposure • Equipment provided is suitable and used correctly |
4/3/12 (High) | • Implement digital monitoring system for tracking exposure • Set up automatic alerts when approaching limits • Investigate mechanical alternatives for high-risk activities Health & Safety Manager, immediate |
4/2/8 (Moderate) |
| Use of vibration emitting tools | Cold conditions increasing HAVS risk | Site personnel in cold environments at increased risk of HAVS | • Provision of warm work areas where possible • Supply of thermal gloves to keep hands warm • Instructions to take regular breaks in warm environment |
3/3/9 (Moderate) | • Provide improved thermal gloves with better dexterity • Install portable heating in work areas during winter • Schedule more frequent breaks during cold weather Site Manager, seasonal |
3/2/6 (Moderate) |
Key:¶
- S = Severity (1-5 scale)
- L = Likelihood (1-5 scale)
- R = Risk Rating (S × L)
- Risk Levels:
- Low (1-3)
- Moderate (4-8)
- High (9-15)
- Very High (16-25)
Related Documents¶
- HSE Guidance on Hand-Arm Vibration
- Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005