Daily EAV for Hand Arm Vibration: Quick Reference for Site Supervisors
The Daily EAV: 2.5 m/s² A(8) / 100 Exposure Points
The daily Exposure Action Value (EAV) for hand arm vibration is 2.5 m/s² A(8), equivalent to 100 exposure points.
This is the threshold set by the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 at which employers must take action to reduce exposure. It is not a "safe" level — it's the point where active management becomes legally mandatory.
The Exposure Limit Value (ELV) is 5 m/s² A(8) / 400 points — the legal maximum. Exceeding the ELV is a breach of the regulations. For a full breakdown of both thresholds, see our EAV and ELV guide.
Quick EAV Check: Does This Worker Need Action?
For site supervisors who need a fast answer:
Step 1: Find the vibration magnitude for the tool (check the tool manual or the Trigger Time Chart).
Step 2: Look up the time to EAV:
| Vibration (m/s²) | Time to EAV (100 pts) |
|---|---|
| 3 | 5h 33m |
| 5 | 2h |
| 7 | 1h 1m |
| 10 | 30m |
| 13 | 18m |
| 15 | 13m |
| 18 | 9m |
| 20 | 7m 30s |
| 25 | 5m |
Step 3: If the worker's trigger time for that tool is approaching the time to EAV — or if they've used multiple tools today — action is required.
For multi-tool exposure, add the points from each tool. Use the HAVS Exposure Calculator for the combined total.
What "Action Required" Means in Practice
When a worker reaches 100 points (EAV):
- Rotate them off vibrating tools or switch to a lower-vibration alternative
- Check whether health surveillance is in place — annual Tier 2 screening is mandatory for EAV-exposed workers
- Log the exposure — record the tools used, trigger times, and total points
- Review controls — is there a way to reduce this worker's exposure next time?
Reaching the EAV doesn't mean the worker must stop all work — they just shouldn't continue accumulating vibration exposure without controls being in place.
The 80% Rule for Supervisors
In practice, don't wait until 100 points to act. If a worker is at 80 points (80% of EAV), they're one short task away from triggering the threshold.
Good practice: set your internal alert at 80% of EAV. This gives you a buffer to rotate workers before the regulatory threshold is hit.
Sources
This guide is for general information only. It is not a substitute for professional health and safety advice.