Car dealership fined after employees exposed to risks from vibrating tools
A car dealership are fined more than £200,000 after two workers are diagnosed with Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).
The pair were diagnosed with the condition following repeated exposure to vibration from working for Rowes Garage Ltd bodyshop, Truro. They regularly used hand tools like random-orbital sanders and reciprocating saws for car body repairs.
Prolonged and regular exposure to vibration can result in painful and disabling disorders, This can include disorder of the nerves, blood supply, joints and muscles of the hands and arms. Therefore, the risk of onset or worsening of it increases with daily exposure and varies widely between individuals.
Tip: HSE guidance on vibration can be found at: here.
An affected employee, said: “It’s hard to say exactly how long I have had symptoms for, maybe about eight years.
“My fingers would go white and I’d lose feeling. This was particularly bad in damp or cold weather.
I can say that over the years my symptoms are worse. Also, the blanching has spread and I find it hard to pick up small items.”
Exposure of its employees to vibration
The investigation found the Garage had not put in place adequate management arrangements. These should assess and monitor the exposure of its employees to vibration. There was no suitable and sufficient risk assessment. Control measures had also not been implemented despite the likelihood of the exposure action value being exceeded.
Employees were not informed of the risk via information, instruction or training. Additionally, despite both employees reporting symptoms of ill health for a number of years, the company fails to take sufficient action to reduce their exposures.
Rowes Garage Ltd of Vertu House, Fifth Avenue Business Park, Gateshead, Tyne and Wear (since November 2023), pleaded guilty to breaching The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £204,000 and ordered to pay £8,099 in costs at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court on 8 May 2025.
HSE inspector Emma O’Hara said “Rowes Garage Ltd had been exposing employees to the risks arising from the use of vibrating tools for a significant period of time.
“They fell below expected standards which has been reflected in the fine that has been imposed. HAVS is a serious and disabling permanent condition. HSE will not hesitate to take action against employers that fall below the expected standard.”
Safety Aide can assist your business regarding Health and Safety, including Risk Assessments, please get in touch on 08000 806 801or email: info@safetyaide.com