Codes of Practice

This Guide provides information for occupational hygienists, ergonomists and other professionals involved in the measurement and assessment of workplace vibration exposures from vibrating plant, in particular hand-held and hand-guided power tools. It also provides technical information on how exposures are to be measured and calculated.

What is hand-arm vibration?
Hand-arm vibration (HAV) is vibration transmitted to a person’s hand and arm when using hand-held power tools. HAV can occur when using hand-guided plant like powered lawnmowers and while holding materials being processed by plant. HAV is commonly experienced by people who use jack-hammers, chainsaws, grinders, drills, riveters and impact wrenches.