Hand-Arm Vibration Medicals (HAVS Medicals)
Protect Your Workforce from Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
Welcome to Assist Group's Hand-Arm Vibration Medicals page. We offer a range of medical and occupational health testing services across Australia, including hand-arm vibration medicals, to protect workers exposed to vibrating tools and machinery.
Book Your HAV Medical Today
Book hand-arm vibration medicals today by phoning our medical reception in your location by CLICKING HERE, or submit your details in the contact form at the bottom of this page.
What Is Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)?
Hand-arm vibration (HAV) is a serious occupational hazard that occurs when workers are exposed to prolonged vibration from hand-held tools or machinery. Over time, repeated exposure can lead to Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). This is a condition affecting blood vessels, nerves, and joints of the hand, wrist, and arm.
Symptoms may include:
- Tingling, numbness, or pain in the fingers and hands
- Reduced grip strength, affecting daily activities
- Skin colour changes (“white finger”), especially in cold or wet conditions
- Permanent nerve damage or disability if left unmanaged
Our HAV medical assessments are designed to identify early signs of HAVS and prevent long-term health complications. These assessments are particularly important for workers using equipment such as jackhammers, grinders, power drills, chainsaws, or any vibrating tools on a regular basis.
Why Is HAV Surveillance Essential?
According to SafeWork NSW, hand-arm vibration can cause irreversible damage if not managed effectively. Our HAVS medicals help:
- Identify early signs of HAVS before long-term damage occurs
- Reduce injury claims and downtime
- Keep your workforce safe, healthy, and productive
- Demonstrate compliance with SafeWork NSW and WHS standards
SafeWork NSW recommends regular health monitoring for workers exposed to hand-arm vibration. Our screening programs are tailored to comply with state regulations and industry best practices, ensuring the safety and productivity of your workforce.
<What Our HAV Medicals Include
Our HAV health surveillance medicals are performed by trained professionals using a structured screening protocol, based on our in-house HAV Screening Tool. This assessment includes:
Work History & Risk Questionnaire- Identification of vibrating tools used.
- Frequency and duration of exposure.
- Review of safety practices (e.g., breaks, tool rotation).
- Early signs of numbness, tingling, or pain.
- Grip strength and fine motor difficulties.
- Assessment of skin colour, muscle tone, and hand function.
- Range of motion tests for wrist and hand.
- Handgrip strength testing using a dynamometer.
- Dexterity and range of motion tests.
- Sensory evaluations (light touch, pinprick, capillary refill).
- Assessment of ulnar, median, and radial nerve function.
Our assessments are designed to give clear, actionable outcomes for both workers and employers.
Who Should Be Assessed?
HAV medical assessments are recommended for:
- Workers who operate vibrating power tools or machinery daily or weekly.
- Employees reporting symptoms like tingling, numbness, or reduced grip.
- Teams in construction, mining, manufacturing, automotive, forestry, or landscaping.
Why Choose Assist Group for HAV Medicals?
- Compliant with SafeWork NSW standards.
- Experienced occupational health practitioners.
- Detailed screening and early intervention protocols.
- Customised reporting for your workplace requirements.
- Integration with broader services like Health Surveillance Medicals
- and Pre-Employment Medicals
Frequently Asked Questions About HAVS
Commonly Asked Questions
Book a Hand-Arm Vibration Medical Today
Ensure your team is protected from Hand-Arm Vibration by scheduling a health surveillance medical today. Please phone our medical reception in your location by CLICKING HERE or submit your details in the contact form below and we will contact you direct to arrange your appointment needs.