Your daily exposure to vibration is measured by a formula known as an A (8) value. This is the average (A) exposure over an eight-hour (8) day and takes into account the magnitude of the vibration and how long you are exposed to it. The rate of vibration of a tool or piece of machinery is measured in meters (m) per second (s) – its movement per second.
Suppliers must provide information on the vibration emission value of their equipment.
The Control of Vibrations Regulations 2005 specify daily exposure levels at which employers will be required to take action to control risks. These are known as 'exposure action values' (EAVs). The regulations also set out 'exposure limit values' (ELVs). Where these are reached, the employer must prevent further daily exposure.
For hand-arm vibration the daily exposure limit value is 5 m/s2 A(8) and the daily exposure action value is 2.5 m/s2 A(8).
For whole body vibration the daily exposure limit value is 1.15 m/s2 A(8) and the daily exposure action value is 0.5 m/s2 A(8).
The regulations contain schedules explaining how your employer should take action to limit your daily exposure to vibration.
