HSE proposes changes to vibration test rules

Proposals to be put forward by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) will, if accepted, mean employers will not have to undertake individual machine testing to comply with the impending Whole Body Vibration regulations.
If the Health & Safety Commission accepts the proposals, employers will be able to assess how much vibration their plant operators are subject to by using the generic figures produced by manufacturers.
Under the scheme, employers would still be required to manage their employees' vibration
exposure. This will continue by taking practical measures such as keeping haul roads in good order and proper machine maintenance.
The operator would need to be fully aware of the effect of speed and seat adjustment on vibration levels. There is also expected to be a recommendation that manual lifting be minimised and operators be made aware of the importance of good posture and ergonomics.
Where vibration levels cannot be limited, the possibility of shorter working hours still remains.
Draft legislation is expected early next year, with enforcement in July 2005.
n Next year, the HSE is planning a purge on construction companies to ensure they have carried out
full risk assessment on empl-oyees using vibrating hand tools. It will be checking vibration figures, duration of operation, operator training and protective gear.