What should I do after a failed HAVS questionnaire?

When an employee reports symptoms during HAVS screening, employers are often unsure what the next step should be.

A failed questionnaire does not automatically mean the employee has Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome. It does mean the result needs reviewing so exposure can be managed safely.

First step — review the symptoms

Typical symptoms reported include tingling, numbness or finger blanching. These vary in significance. Mild intermittent symptoms may only require monitoring, whereas persistent symptoms require clinical assessment.

Second step — consider exposure

Check the employee’s tools and duration of use. Until a decision is made, a precautionary approach is usually sensible, particularly if blanching is reported.

Third step — arrange assessment if needed

Where symptoms are present, employers normally arrange a clinical assessment so a clear decision can be made about continued vibration exposure.

The purpose of this step is risk management rather than diagnosis. The outcome provides guidance on whether work can continue and what restrictions may apply.

Why this matters

Without assessment, employers are left making decisions without medical advice. The assessment closes the surveillance process and provides defensible management guidance.

What to do next

If symptoms have been reported, a clinical decision may be required to determine whether exposure can continue.

Employers normally arrange a Tier 4 assessment so a clear occupational decision can be made.

Read more about:
Tier 4 HAVS medical assessment
https://www.pemshealth.co.uk/tier-4-havs