What are the HAV exposure limits?

Under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005: Exposure Action Value (EAV) is 2.5 m/s2 A(8) or 100 HSE points per day. Exposure Limit Value (ELV) is 5.0 m/s2 A(8) or 400 points. The ELV must never be exceeded.

How do HAV points work?

HSE points simplify the calculation: Points = vibration magnitude squared x exposure hours x 2. So a tool vibrating at 5 m/s2 used for 1 hour gives 50 points. Points from different tools are added together. 100 points = EAV, 400 points = ELV.

What is HAVS (Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome)?

HAVS causes permanent damage to nerves, blood vessels, and joints in the hands. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, loss of grip strength, and white finger (Raynaud's phenomenon). It develops gradually with regular vibration exposure and is irreversible.

How do I reduce HAV exposure?

Use lower-vibration tools (check manufacturer declarations), limit trigger time, use sharp cutting tools (less force needed), rotate tasks between workers, keep hands warm, maintain anti-vibration gloves, and ensure tools are well-maintained.

Where do I find tool vibration data?

Manufacturers must declare vibration values (3-axis) in product specifications. Check the tool manual or manufacturer website. Note: declared values are often lower than real-world measurements. The HSE publishes field-measured data for common tools.

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HAV Exposure Calculator

Calculate Hand-Arm Vibration exposure points and daily A(8)

Tool 1

Vibration Magnitude

Trigger Time (Tool 1)

How We Calculate This

Enter the vibration magnitude (m/s2) from the tool declaration and the trigger time in minutes. The calculator computes HSE exposure points (vibration^2 x hours x 2) and the daily A(8) exposure value. Points from a second tool can be added. Results are compared against the EAV (100 points / 2.5 m/s2) and ELV (400 points / 5.0 m/s2) from the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.