Social Housing Provider Fined £140k After Workers Developed HAVS
In April 2025, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) fined Stonewater Ltd £140,000 after two estate assistants developed Hand‑Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) . The staff regularly used vibrating tools—leaf blowers, strimmers and hedge trimmers—for up to 90% of their day. Investigations found no risk assessment, insufficient training on vibration use, and a lack of health‑surveillance systems . This case highlights that HAVS remains a serious risk across many industries, including construction.
Legal Obligations Under the Vibration Regulations
The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 require employers to:
-
Assess exposure levels and identify tasks creating vibration risks .
-
Implement controls, such as lower‑vibration tools, work rotation, regular breaks, and good tool maintenance.
-
Provide information, training and supervision on vibration risk and tool use.
-
Establish health surveillance when exposures exceed the action value of 2.5 m/s² A(8) .
Failing to comply can lead to occupational injuries, enforcement action and financial penalties.
How All Star Safety Helps Protect Your Workers from Vibration Damage
At All Star Safety, we assist in managing vibration risks through combined assessment, training, competency and monitoring:
-
Vibration Risk Assessments & COSHH Audits
We identify tools creating high vibration and recommend suitable PPE, maintenance, and task rotation.
-
Toolbox Talks & Equipment Training
Our sessions ensure workers understand tool-specific hazards, correct handling techniques and early symptom recognition.
-
NVQ Programmes (Levels 2–7)
Our supervisory training includes sections on managing exposure and ensuring compliance with vibration laws.
-
NPORS Plant & Equipment Courses
We emphasise reduced vibration exposure when using plant, ensuring operators make safer choices onsite.
-
First Aid with Health Surveillance Awareness
First‑Aid at Work now includes guidance on responding to early signs of HAVS and connecting employees to medical support.
-
Upcoming IOSH Training from September 2025
Our IOSH Managing Safely and Working Safely courses (including e‑learning from October 2025) will further strengthen hazard management and risk awareness.
Immediate Steps You Should Take
-
Conduct a vibration risk assessment for tasks using power tools
-
Ensure work is organised to include rotated tasks and rest breaks where needed
-
Deliver toolbox talks covering HAVS symptoms, PPE and tool maintenance
-
Enrol supervisors and managers in NVQ and IOSH training to embed awareness
-
Schedule health surveillance for employees exposed to significant vibration
-
Promote First‑Aid training that includes defending employees against early HAVS signs
Addressing vibration exposure is not just a legal necessity—it protects your workforce long‑term. Through audit, training, competency programmes and awareness, All Star Safety helps secure both health outcomes and regulatory compliance.
Contact us to see how we can assist you in staying safe and compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402 | 📞 01473 561 402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk