In terms of daily exposure to vibration (the quantity of mechanical vibration to which an employee is exposed during a working day, normally an 8 hour reference period, which takes account of the magnitude and duration of the vibration) Say the Exposure Action Value (EAV) is 3.5hrs based on a tool with a 3.8 vm - The regs state that action must be taken to reduce the exposure. However, the process is going to take 6hrs. I am not clear on the term 'action' in this regard, for example, based in the above scenario, is it feasible to stop the work for a determined period within the 8 hr day, for arguments sake, say 1hr, then for the same employee return and complete the work? Other actions, for example, job rotation, changes to work methods, or introducing lower vibration equipment have been considered. I fear I am being think with this one, but any views will help! Been studying too long! G Exposure Limit Value (ELV) means the maximum amount of vibration an employee may be exposed to on any single day. For hand-arm vibration the ELV is a daily exposure of 5 m/s2 A (8) For whole body vibration the ELV is a daily exposure of 1.15 m/s2 A (8) Working Day means a daily working period irrespective of the time of day when it begins or ends and whether it begins or ends on the same calendar day.

I dont really know what you are asking here. But, with any HAV's, ensure as low vibration tool as possible is used, make the operative aware of the amount of time he is allowed to use the item, keep a records of HAV's use, and job rotation, i.e. get a coulpe of lads on a half hour or hourly basis depending on the output. 'Action value' means you must do something, introduce controls or limit usage, 'Limit value' you cannot exceed, and must take immediate action to reduce this level. Working day, means that operatives working day.

As long as the employee does not go over the ELV (on saying that, going over it 1 or 2 days over a space of a week is not too great problem) then the term 'Action' can be anything from regular breaks/job rotation etc etc. I find the best way to monitor is by using the points system which you can get from the HSE website. Also keep in mind that if an employee reaches the maximum limit of 1 tool then no other vibrating tools can be used within that working day. Hope this makes sense?

Ok from your example 3.8 m/s piece of equipment has an ELV of 8 hours or so , so ok there, but EAV will be exceeded, so you have to take appropriate actions, Health surveillance, Provide info, instruction and training as per Reg 8 and implement organisational & technical measures. You seem to be asking is it better to split up the persons working day and the answer is yes this helps ( helps not fixes), the guidance INDG175(Rev2) suggests several shorter periods of working are better than one continuous work period. Reality is the operative will not keep their finger on the trigger for 3.5 hours solid, so review what they are actually doing. You also should look at keeping them and their hands warm to aid circulation. Keep looking for alternatives via job rotation, better equipment etc and watch the health surveillance outcomes. The other reference is L140 for guidance.