Hand-arm vibration in amenity horticulture and how to control the risk

Date of publication:
March 2019
Series code:
INDG480

This guidance is aimed at employers in amenity horticulture. It explains how to protect workers from the risk of hand-arm vibration.

Hand-arm vibration is vibration transmitted into workers' hands and arms, for example by hand-held and guided power tools, such as hedge trimmers and powered mowers.

Regular and frequent exposure to hand-arm vibration can lead to permanent ill health. The two main health conditions associated with hand-arm vibration exposure are:

  • hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS)
  • carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)

The guidance will help employers:

  • identify when exposure may cause harm
  • understand how to comply with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005
  • take practical steps to control the vibration risk

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Updated: 2021-03-23