Would it be reasonable for a principal contractor to ask to see a sub contractor's records of this and all other records relating to individual employees? I wonder how long is the list of records expected to be produced by a sub contractor?

Vibration in the construction indusrty still causes long term health problems each year particularly hand arm vibration. The Principal Contrcator is wise to be cautious from both protecting themselves from litigation and protecting the individual employees from harm. I think however that they need to consider whether they are asking for the right type of records. The regulations are very clear that a risk assessment needs to be carried out and all the necessary precautions are taken, such as not exceeding the daily exposure limits, regular breaks, keeping warm, not smoking before or after using vibrating tools etc I think the PC should ask about any health surveillance issues and whether there are any individuals who may be at increased risk and also what information is given to them about the risks of being exposed to vibration. Asking for a long list won't be helpful in identifying those at risk or reducing the risk.

It would be an equally reasonable response to say you don't keep records of individual exposure and offer them your relevant Risk Assessments.

Whilst the employer may be required to maintain sufficient record of individual exposure to validate the control measures in Risk Assessments, there is no absolute requirement to divulge the names of individuals against these records. Once the Risk Assessment and controls have been validated, individual monitoring may cease. It is then entirely up to the employer how and for how long he chooses to retain these records. Where the records are retained, the employer may also choose to remove personal data to negate any potential Data Protection issues. I am firmly of the opinion that your client or principal contractor has no right to this level of information. Your Risk Assessments should suffice.