zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz with invaluable intelligence to improve working performance and project strategy, resulting in potentially shorter project delivery timescales and cost reductions. Paper-based systems can disrupt operators and require significant administration resource and cost. Also, using a paper-based system typically over-estimates operator exposure by up to four times the correct amount, resulting in lower productivity. Taking all these benefits into consideration, the case for more effective HAV monitoring is compelling. It’s not just a case of mitigating against the risk of over-exposure, it’s about providing your business with a competitive edge that can provide real added value to your operations. zz
requirements over time. Creating efficiency in plant allocation can dramatically reduce unnecessary tool, servicing and transportation costs. Accurate reporting on tool trigger time usage and performance provides a clearer overview to help plan efficient tool rotation and service requirements. Being able to monitor operator tool usage and work practices can provide a company
Jim O’Hagan is managing director at Reactec
Case Study: Carillion Plc
Operators tend to over-estimate when guessing tool usage at the end of a shift or even fabricate the data to get it out of the way. More accurate data means not having to replace skilled personnel that overestimate their exposure levels, resulting in delays and ultimately extending project timetables and cost.
Reaping the rewards of effective HAVS management Effective monitoring of HAVS has traditionally been viewed as a health & safety solution, but it can provide employers with so much more, particularly when it comes to improving tool allocation and workforce productivity. Knowing which tools have been used and for how long helps project managers to refine
l Carillion is an integrated support services company with a substantial portfolio of Public Private Partnership projects and extensive construction capabilities. Site agent Jonathan Long is currently overseeing the platform refurbishment project at Glasgow Central rail station, and is pleased that bringing an HAVmeter system on site to monitor Hand Arm Vibration (HAV) has resulted in a significant increase in worker protection and productivity, and cost savings. Jonathan said: “Jobs on site include a lot of breakout work and drilling, particularly at the start of the project. This requires the use of a range of power tools, all of which generate vibration at varying levels, so our team members are frequently exposed. “For previous projects we had been using a paper-based system for HAV monitoring, in line with the guidelines set out by the HSE. We found, however, that self-monitoring by individual employees was not the most accurate way to record vibration exposure, as much of the records were based on rough estimations. An employee might have had a power tool out for an hour, but only used it for a few short bursts of activity within that hour, or conversely been on a breaker for three hours non-stop, so the time recorded could be highly inaccurate. “It was also really time-consuming to compile and analyse data reports, and difficult to know which tools were putting our workers most at risk, but all of these problems are addressed with the HAVmeter system.” Carillion implemented the HAVmeter – the industry standard for monitoring and managing HAV exposure and operator tool management – in 2011 when work at Glasgow Central station began. The HAVmeter completely automates the entire monitoring, data collection and reporting process – from operator exposure levels to detailed records of tool usage – so managers can proactively manage HAVS risk, plan efficient tool allocation and improve worker efficiency.
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