Hand-held portable power tools such as grinders, sanders, impact wrenches, and air chisels are used extensively in MVR. These transmit vibration into the operator’s hands and arms.

There is a legal duty to manage the risk from HAVS under the Control of Vibration Regulations 2005. According to HSE, HAVS Vibration White Finger (VWF) is the most commonly prescribed disease under the Industrial Injuries Disability Benefit scheme for the last ten years, (although the number of new cases of VWF has fallen significantly over that period) and is one of the highest causes of RIDDOR reportable health conditions. Employers therefore have a duty to protect the health of their staff, as well as reduce their civil and criminal liability.