HAVS (Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome) Training Course

Duration 1-2 Hours

Last audited 12th September 2023

CPD Approved RoSPA Approved
Hand-Arm Vibration (HAVS) Training
For me
For teams
  • 100% online training

  • Start when you like

  • Learn on any device (desktop, mobile or tablet)

  • Instant assessment and result

  • 1 learner per course

  • Train teams of all sizes

  • Bulk discounts starting at 10% off 10 courses

  • Learn on any device (desktop, mobile or tablet)

£25 +VAT

include vat

Includes a 10% discount for 10+ courses

This HAVS (Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome) training course considers the use of vibrating tools and equipment used in the workplace and how these can cause long-term damage to health if they’re not effectively managed.

HAVS is a debilitating health condition that is commonly caused by the use of hand-held electrical tools, such as chainsaws, grinding equipment and high torque wrenches, or from holding components that are being worked on by machines. This course explains more about the health hazards associated with vibration exposure, outlines how to carry out an appropriate risk assessment and details the control measures that can be used to reduce the risks.

100% online training

Access anywhere

Same day digital certificate

Printed certificate posted next working day

Full audio voiceover

Unlimited assessment attempts

Written in compliance with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005

Developed by health and safety professionals

Accredited by CPD and assured by RoSPA Qualifications

What you'll learn

By the end of this course learners will:

  • Understand the risks posed by excessive levels of vibration and the effects high levels of vibration exposure can have on a person's health.
  • Know the main duties placed on both employers and employees under The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, as well as other key legal duties.
  • Understand how to carry out a vibration risk assessment.
  • Know how vibration levels are measured in the workplace and understand how to avoid, substitute, control and reduce exposure to excessive vibration levels.
  • Understand when personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn, how to use it correctly and how to properly maintain and store it.
  • Know when health surveillance will be needed and who may need it.

Training you can trust

  • Course Content
  • Assessment
  • Suitable for

Module 1: Introduction to HAVS

What is hand-arm vibration?, the symptoms of hand-arm vibration exposure, what industries are most at risk of HAVS?, examples of vibrating equipment, legislation, the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, vibration exposure values, the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974, the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008, associated risks: noise exposure, and employee duties.

Module 2: Risk Assessment

Key definitions, what is a risk assessment?, who should carry out a risk assessment?, step 1 - identifying hazards, step 2 - deciding who may be harmed and how, step 3 - evaluating risks, the hierarchy of control, step 4 - recording findings, and step 5 - reviewing risk assessments.

Module 3: Reducing and Controlling Risks

Purchasing and hiring policies, key duties of manufacturers and suppliers, elimination, substitution, engineering controls, maintenance and use of machinery and equipment, the maintenance checklist, administrative controls, reducing exposure time, information, instruction and training, key instructions for employees, personal protective equipment (PPE), health surveillance, and why is health surveillance important?

The online assessment is taken on completion of the training material. You will be asked 15 multiple choice questions with a pass mark of 80%. The answers are marked automatically so you will instantly know whether you have passed. If you don't pass don't worry! You can take the test as many times as you need with no extra charge.

This HAVS training course is suitable for anyone who has responsibility for managing the risks of vibration in the workplace, as well as anyone who uses vibrating equipment or tools, or holds components being worked on by machinery, as part of their job role.

This includes those working in:

  • Construction and carpentry.
  • Mining, quarrying and stone masonry.
  • Forestry, estate management and grounds maintenance.
  • Foundries.
  • The public utilities sector (gas, electricity, water, etc.).
  • Engineering factories and workshops.

Frequently asked questions

Can this training course help me apply for SSIP accreditations like CHAS and SMAS?

Yes, our Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) course can act as evidence of industry-related training for accreditation applications, such as CHAS. It covers the requirements of Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, which will help you understand how to fulfil the legal duties they set out. Knowledge of these topics form part of the training requirements set out by accreditation assessment bodies, so you must be able to demonstrate evidence of compliance in order for your application to be successful. Our course will contribute to the evidence you must provide during your application, to show that you have received the relevant training.


Please note that it will be down to each individual accreditation body to decide if our courses are sufficient for the training requirements of your specific business. This evidence only forms one part of your overall application process. It is up to you to prove you are fulfilling your legal duties and to supply sufficient evidence for everything the accrediting body requires in order for your application to be successful.


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