14-05-2025
Car dealership fined £200,000 after two workers diagnosed with incurable condition
A car dealership has been handed a hefty fine of over £200,000 after two employees were diagnosed with hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) at its body shop in November 2022. The condition, caused by frequent use of vibrating tools, such as random-orbital sanders and reciprocating saws during vehicle refurbishments, was identified following repeated exposure to the equipment.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) warns that extended use of vibration-inducing tools can lead to serious health issues, including chronic joint, nerve, circulatory, and muscle disorders affecting the arms and hands. The risk of developing or worsening HAVS increases with daily exposure to vibration, and individual susceptibility to this condition can differ from person-to-person.
The workers were employed at Rowes Garage Ltd, in Truro, Cornwall, reports Plymouth Live.
An employee, who wished to remain anonymous, opened up about their ordeal, saying: "It's hard to say exactly how long I have had the symptoms for, but I think maybe a hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS)bout eight years. My fingers would go white and I'd lose feeling. This was particularly bad in damp or cold weather."
They continued: "I can say that over the years my symptoms seem to have got worse. The blanching has spread and I find it hard to pick up small items."
An investigation by the HSE uncovered inadequate management systems for monitoring vibration exposure from tools among staff at Rowes Garage. It also found a lack of proper risk assessments and preventative measures, despite high levels of exposure.
The garage's workers were not informed or trained about the potential risk of injury. Although two employees had experienced symptoms of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) for several years, the company failed to take adequate action to reduce their exposure.
Rowes Garage Ltd, based in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
The company was fined £204,000 and ordered to pay £8,099 in costs by Plymouth Magistrates' Court on May 8.
HSE Inspector Emma O'Hara said: "Rowes Garage Ltd had been exposing employees to the risks arising from the use of vibrating tools for a significant period of time.
"They fell below expected standards which has been reflected in the fine that has been imposed. HAVS is a serious and disabling permanent condition and HSE will not hesitate to take action against employers that fall below the expected standard."
The successful prosecution was led by HSE enforcement lawyer Jonathan Bambro and Paralegal Rebecca Forman.
