A US Navy technician using a pneumatic tool. Small and large machinery can both cause HAVS

How to prevent hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS)

The risks of operating vibrating machinery and other tools has been known about since the Industrial Revolution, but they remain under-appreciated. Yet the condition can be debilitating and the fines for breaches can be significant, as with the recent £150,000 lawsuit brought against Wrexham Council. Preventing hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is relatively simple, assuming… Read More

What is occupational disease?

What is occupational disease? An occupational disease is any symptom or illness that evolves from an individual’s exposure to risk factors in the workplace. These illnesses can have numerous causes and symptoms, and can vary wildly in severity. The earliest recognised occupational illness was squamous-cell carcinoma of the scrotum, which was identified in chimney sweep… Read More