Whole body vibration in docks

The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations came into force on 6 July 2005. They place a duty on employers to protect persons from risk to their health from exposure to vibration at work. They apply to hand/arm vibration and whole body vibration.

The equipment most likely to cause significant exposure in docks are:

• Quayside cranes
• Straddle carriers
• Terminal tugs

Action to reduce whole body vibration include:

• Maintain rails and surfaces
• Limit access to poor surfaces
• Adjust/maintain seat suspensions

More detailed guidance on vibration may be found on the HSE Vibration website and Preventing back pain: Update on whole-body Vibration and ergonomics HSE guidance and expectations [PDF 212KB].