The adoption of the European Directive 2002/44/EC (the Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive) requires Member States to introduce implementing legislation by July 2005. The directive clarifies existing general duties of employers regarding risks from vibration and introduces exposure action and limit values. Where the exposure action value (2.5 ms -2 A(8)) is exceeded, a programmed of risk control measures and health surveillance is required. Exposure in excess of the exposure limit value (5 ms^-2 A(8)) is prohibited.

In Great Britain, it is likely that nearly one million people are exposed to hand-arm vibration at or above the exposure limit value. This paper discusses plans for interventions on hand-arm vibration by the Health and Safety Executive between the introduction of regulations implementing the directive, through to the end of the transition period for the exposure limit value. Plans include the publication of revised guidance for employers on risk assessment/control and health surveillance and targeted campaigns aimed at industry sectors where high exposures remain prevalent. In industries where good practice and reasonably practicable control strategies have been established, these campaigns will feature appropriate combinations of information, guidance, education and support for duty holders, combined with inspection and enforcement as required. Where technical difficulties remain, the emphasis will be to encourage the development of new ways of working in order to avoid vibration exposures and to achieve compliance by the end of the transitional period in 2010.