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What Is HAVS? Causes, Symptoms and Long-Term Impact

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a serious occupational condition caused by prolonged exposure to vibration, typically from hand-held tools and machinery. Once considered a niche industrial issue, HAVS is now recognised as a widespread risk across manufacturing, construction, forestry, and vehicle repair sectors.

Workers Discussing Dangers

What Is HAVS?

HAVS refers to a range of vascular, neurological, and musculoskeletal disorders affecting the fingers, hands, and arms. It results from repeated exposure to vibration transmitted through tools like grinders, drills, chainsaws, and pneumatic equipment.

Previously known as “vibration white finger,” the term HAVS was adopted to reflect the broader spectrum of symptoms beyond just vascular blanching.

Causes of HAVS

HAVS develops over time due to:

  • Prolonged use of vibrating tools (e.g., grinders, impact wrenches, jackhammers)

  • High vibration intensity without adequate breaks

  • Cold and damp working conditions, which exacerbate vascular symptoms

  • Poor tool maintenance, increasing vibration output

  • Tight grip and awkward postures, which intensify transmission

The damage occurs gradually, affecting small nerves, blood vessels, and joints in the hands and arms.

Symptoms of HAVS

Symptoms typically progress in stages:

Early Signs

  • Tingling or pins and needles in fingers

  • Numbness that may come and go

  • Reduced tactile sensitivity

Intermediate Symptoms

  • Loss of grip strength

  • Difficulty handling small objects

  • Pain or discomfort during tool use

Advanced Symptoms

  • Permanent numbness

  • Vibration white finger (blanching in cold, followed by redness and pain)

  • Chronic pain and reduced manual dexterity

These symptoms can severely impact work performance and quality of life.

Long-Term Impact

If untreated, HAVS can lead to:

  • Permanent nerve damage, resulting in loss of sensation

  • Vascular dysfunction, including Raynaud’s phenomenon

  • Muscle weakness and joint stiffness

  • Disability and job loss, especially in manual trades

  • Psychosocial effects, such as anxiety, depression, and financial stress

Importantly, HAVS is preventable but irreversible once damage is done. Early intervention and consistent monitoring are key.

Prevention and Monitoring

Employers and safety managers should:

  • Conduct regular vibration risk assessments

  • Implement vibration exposure monitoring systems

  • Rotate tasks and enforce break schedules

  • Provide anti-vibration gloves and ergonomic tools

  • Train workers to recognise early symptoms

Compliance with regulations like the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 is essential for legal and ethical workplace safety.