The use of electric power tools and equipment exposes workers to high levels of vibration, which can cause permanent and severe damage.

Specifically, excessive vibration is known to cause hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), commonly known as “white finger”. Symptoms such as numbness, a tingling sensation in the fingers, and loss of strength. If exposure is severe, these symptoms become permanent.

An estimated 5 million people are exposed to HAVS at work, and nearly half of them are exposed to levels high enough to develop the disease.

These serious risks are entirely preventable and the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 requires employers to protect workers from them.

This Vibration Awareness ecourse will teach workers how vibration can cause ill health in the form of HAVS, how to carry out a risk assessment and how to implement control measures. Once the course and assessment are completed, you will receive a certificate.

The course will cover:

• How vibration affects us
• Controlling vibration at work
• Legal responsibilities
• Health surveillance

• Employers will fulfil their legal duty under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005.
• Employers will know to stay below specific exposure limits and the required measures to reduce exposure when necessary.
• Workers will know how to spot symptoms of HAVS before they become permanent.