Posted By Raymond Rapp It has been brought to my attention that there is currently a HAVs indicator unit on trial on some sites. The HAVI unit is a small device that is attached to a HAV producing tool by a cable tie or velcro strap. The unit is then set to the frequency of the tool, with the vibration value taken from the manufacturers guidance. When the operative comes to use the tool, the HAVI turns itself on and counts the points as the tool is used. Sounds all well and good. I have been asked to comment on the uses and limitations of the HAVI, which is not easy as I have yet to see it. Obviously there appear to be some drawbacks, such as the user recording the information via a log book and the site supervisor monitoring the records. Anyone seen or used the HAVI and would be interested in providing any comments? Regards Ray

Posted By holmezy Raymond, I had a look at these a month or 2 ago. The following is not specific to this particular piece of equipment, rather a general bit of advice! The velcro strap that "may" be used may not give a tight or secure enough union on the tool to be assessed. If you are going to use tie wraps then they need to be the stronger variety. The ones with a smooth tails and a metal "tooth" would be the ones to go for as they do achieve a strong and tight fix to the equipment. Also they do not tend to "creep". The tie wraps with serrated tails are ok, but because of the serration spacings you may get a bit of movement. Bets way of secureing is via a mechanical method ie bolt or screw directly to the tool so semi permanent? This may not always be practical so good jubilee clips could be used as could a good adhesive. The important bit is to make sure there join is solid and doesnt allow any movement which would distort any readings. I would also be very wary of using manufacturers info re the vibration levels. The "lab" tests are not usually representative of how the tool is used in real life. Guidance recommends that you double or treble the reading from the manufacturer? I'd buy, hire or beg a good HAVS monitor and establish the correct vibration readings of each tool, however, you also then have to be aware that this may increase as the tool wears, the bit wears or the operator misuses it. As an simple indicator, then this type of equipment would be ok, in my opinion, but for accurate monitoring there is probably better kit on the market. I assume you have read L140? It is only my opinion though! Holmezy

Posted By Raymond Rapp Thanks to those who have responded so far. It is clear that there are some limitations with the use of this device and ideally power tools should have a a built-in visual display reader similar to CAT tools, which would measure real-time use. HAV monitoring is arguably the most difficult of all HSE impositions and possibly the least complied with for the same reason. Hence any improvement is to be welcomed. Still interested in other's comments.