Hand-arm vibration ( HAV) is a widespread hazard in many industries and occupations
involving the use of hand-held power tools (such as grinders or hammer drills), hand-guided
machinery (such as lawnmower s and plate compactors) or hand-fed machines (such as
pedestal grinders). Prolonged and regular exposure to this vibration can affect the
operator’s health, res ulting in painful and disa bling disorders of t he nerves, blood s upply,
joints and muscles of the hands and arms. These disorders are collectively known as handarm
vibration syndrome (HAVS). The symptoms affecting blood supply to the finger s are
also known as v ibration-induced white finger (VWF). The ri sk of onset or worsening of
HAVS increases with daily exposure and varies widely between individuals.