More and more companies are taking steps to create safer workplaces. A natural first move is to carry out a risk assessment – often by measuring a specific tool, task or referring to the manufacturer’s vibration values. But this only tells part of the story.
To truly protect workers from hand-arm vibration injuries, you need to understand what happens in real life – not just in theory.
Same task – different exposure
We see it all the time: even when the same person performs the same task with the same tool, vibration exposure levels can vary significantly from day to day.
Why? Because vibration exposure isn’t just about the tool itself. It’s influenced by several factors, including:
- How the tool is held – a tighter grip often increases the vibration transferred to the hand.
- How the tool vibrates – tools with higher frequencies can sometimes result in lower risk scores, as the body absorbs less harmful energy.
- What material is being worked on – hard concrete, steel, wood or softer surfaces all affect how vibrations travel.
- How tense the body is – in cold, noisy or stressful environments, workers naturally tense up, which can increase the risk of harm.
So while the brand on the tool may be the same, the real impact depends on how it’s used, by whom, and under what conditions.
Manufacturer data doesn’t reflect reality
Many still rely on vibration values found in user manuals when assessing risk. But those numbers are usually measured in ideal lab conditions – not on a construction site, in a workshop or on uneven ground.
We’ve seen actual exposure levels vary – sometimes much higher, sometimes lower – depending on tool type, usage technique, and working conditions.
That’s why it’s so important to measure in real-world settings.
Real-time measurement – where it matters
HAVS Protect measures vibration continuously, directly from the worker’s hand – where the impact happens. This provides a clear, ongoing view of each individual’s exposure throughout the day.
When exposure approaches safety thresholds, the system alerts both the worker and their supervisor, allowing action to be taken before harm occurs.
Today, we already help construction, industrial, and maintenance companies protect their workers from developing long-term injuries.
More than just measurement – a shift in mindset
One of the most powerful effects we see is the shift in safety culture. Once vibration becomes visible – and measurable – conversations change.
Workers start talking about grip and technique. Supervisors improve job rotation and planning. Awareness increases across the entire team.
This new mindset can make a bigger difference than any single intervention.
Want to protect your team from vibration injuries – and build a stronger safety culture on site? Let’s talk. It’s easier than you think to get started.
