Hand Arm Vibration Safety - Safety Signs by Caledonia Signs

A Hand Arm Vibration Safety Sign is used to warn workers about potential exposure to hand-arm vibration (HAV) hazards in a specific area or while using certain tools. HAV occurs when vibrations from machinery, such as drills, grinders, or chainsaws, are transmitted into a worker’s hands and arms. Over time, excessive exposure can lead to Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), which causes numbness, tingling, loss of grip strength, and, in severe cases, permanent nerve damage. The sign serves as a clear visual reminder to take precautions and use proper safety measures when working with vibrating equipment.

These signs are typically placed in areas where workers regularly operate high-vibration tools or machinery. Common locations include construction sites, workshops, manufacturing plants, and maintenance areas. They may be positioned near tool storage areas, on worksite entry points, or directly on equipment to ensure visibility before use. Placement is strategic—ensuring that the warning is seen before a worker begins a task that could expose them to harmful vibration levels.

Using a Hand Arm Vibration Safety Sign not only raises awareness but also reinforces compliance with workplace health and safety regulations. In many regions, employers are legally required to inform and protect employees from excessive vibration exposure. The sign acts as part of a broader safety system that may include vibration exposure monitoring, tool maintenance, work rotation schedules, and the use of anti-vibration gloves. Together, these measures help reduce the risk of long-term injury.

In summary, the sign’s role is preventative—it alerts workers to the presence of vibration hazards and prompts them to take necessary precautions. It should be used wherever there’s a realistic chance that prolonged or repeated tool use could exceed recommended exposure limits. By placing these signs in the right locations and ensuring they are easily understood, employers can significantly improve workplace safety and protect their workforce from serious and irreversible health problems.

Materials Explained

Below is a more detailed description of the materials this particular safety sign is available in. Helping you decide which sign option is most suitable for your application.

Rigid Plastic: This lightweight, gloss white PVC is resistant to weather, moisture, chemicals, and general wear and tear, making it suitable for harsh environments. Its smooth, solid surface allows for crisp printing of text and graphics, enhancing readability and visual impact. Businesses who choose Rigid Plastic signs benefit from fewer replacements and minimal maintenance, making it a practical investment for reliable and effective safety signs.

Self-Adhesive Vinyl: Self-adhesive vinyl is easy to apply and it’s budget-friendly. Its adhesive backing allows for easy application to a variety of surfaces such as glass, metal, plastic, and painted walls, which simplifies installation and reduces setup time. Self-adhesive vinyl provides a clean, professional finish that suits many indoor environments including offices, retail, industrial sites, and vehicles. It is more affordable than many other material types and allows for custom shapes, colours, and graphics.