A NEW ‘vital piece’ of personal protective equipment could protect forestry operators from hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and whole-body vibration (WBV). 

HAVSPRO, developed by SIXIS Technology, uses sensors and tool holsters to provide accurate, real-time measurement as it monitors workplace vibration. 

Simply clicked onto whichever tool the operator is using, such as a chainsaw, the technology sends data to a cloud-based reporting platform for both HAV and WBV, ensuring levels remain within legal limits. 

Russ Langthorne, managing director of HAVSPRO, said: “Too many solutions on the market rely on estimates derived from manufacturer testing and average vibration levels. 

“These don’t take account of variations in vibration based on the specific job being done, the condition of the tool, or how the operator is using it.” 

Employees get real-time insight and proactive alerts into their Exposure Action Value (EAV) and Exposure Limit Value (ELV) to keep them protected.

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When the operator reaches their EAV, the sensor flashes amber to indicate the limit has been reached and action should be taken. If they later hit 90 per cent of the daily ELV, the device flashes amber and red to warn that they are approaching their limit; it will then flash red when they actually hit their limit. In all cases, text and email alerts can be set up for the operator, the supervisor and any other appropriate stakeholders.

Russ added: “In this day and age, we shouldn’t be relying on old technology or old-fashioned, inaccurate methods to manage the risk of vibration exposure.” 

For more information, visit havspro.com.