What is vibration white finger?
Vibration white finger (VWF) is one of a number of conditions referred to as Work Related Upper Limb disorder. VWF is caused by intense and prolonged exposure to vibration – often as a result of using power tools, heavy machinery, agricultural vehicles and such like.
Typically, VWF involves damage both to the blood supply and the nervous system. It causes the fingers to periodically turn white as a result. When this happens sufferers will often complain of a numb sensation or tingling and pain. It can make everyday tasks, even doing up the buttons on a shirt, very difficult.
How common is VWF?
Though rules like the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 have been put in place to protect employees from vibration white finger, a significant number of industrial, agricultural and construction workers continue to suffer from the condition. This is often a result of their employer’s negligence, giving them every right to claim compensation for their debilitating condition.
According to figures released by the Government’s Health and Safety Executive, in 2022, there were 300 reported new cases of hand/arm vibration syndrome in the UK. As this statistic only counts those who have actually received a diagnosis, it can be presumed that there are more sufferers out there who are either undiagnosed or unaware of their right to claim. If this is you, then it may be time to pursue the compensation that you are rightfully entitled to.
What are my employer’s responsibilities?
As we mentioned earlier, the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 and the wider Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 are very clear on what your employer must do to ensure a safe working environment. Legal obligations include:
- Reducing vibration exposure as much as possible.
- Monitoring and managing exposure to vibration.
- Setting and enforcing time limits for the use of vibrating tools and machinery.
- Offering ongoing training on the correct use of vibrating tools.
- Regularly evaluating the workplace to limit unnecessary vibrating tool use.
- Supplying the right personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Conducting risk assessments for vibration-involved tasks that could lead to harm.
- Updating or replacing older equipment with safer, more modern versions.
What injuries are most commonly caused by exposure to vibration?
Vibration-related injuries, often occurring in industrial, construction and agricultural workplaces, can gradually appear over time, from a period of months to several years. These injuries are frequently a result of accidents at work caused by inadequate protection against prolonged exposure to vibration. Here are the most frequent types of vibration injuries:
Vibration white finger: This condition causes ongoing numbness, tingling, and pain in the arms and hands, often leading to joint pain and muscle weakness from narrowed blood vessels. This can cause long-term, ongoing effects, including:
- Fingers turning white or blue: A reaction to cold or stress indicating circulation problems.
- Nerve damage: Resulting in decreased sensation and hand function.
- Reduced ability to move and grip: Affecting daily tasks and quality of life.
- Bone cysts: Hollow areas in bones that can cause structural weakness.
- Osteoporosis: Bone thinning that increases fracture risk.
What evidence do I need to make a vibration white finger claim?
In order for your claim to be successful, our experienced solicitors will need evidence to prove that your vibration white finger was a result of your employer’s oversight. The evidence they will require may include:
- Details about your job history, the period of employment, and the equipment or tools you used that you believe caused your condition.
- Medical records that diagnose your vibration white finger condition.
- Statements and contact information of colleagues ready to support your claim.
- Photographic or video evidence that shows the faulty equipment responsible for your injury.
- Copies of accident reports, safety assessments, and risk assessments from your workplace.
- A detailed account of any financial setbacks, including lost wages and other expenses due to your condition.
If you’re missing any details, our expert lawyers can assist in gathering the necessary information.
Taking the first steps towards making a compensation claim
The very first step in making a claim for vibration white finger is to get a diagnosis from a doctor. This may involve a number of simple manual dexterity tests and consideration of your history working with vibrating tools and machinery.
Once you have been diagnosed with the condition, the main element of your compensation claim will be to prove that your employer or former employer was to blame by failing in their duty of care to protect you.
Vibration white finger can be prevented to some extent by proper training in tool use, regular maintenance of equipment, supply of gloves and other appropriate protective gear, and regular breaks. If your employer has not implemented these conditions then they have failed to protect you, as well as breaching health and safety regulations.
How long does it take to get vibration white finger
The time it takes for vibration white finger (VWF) to develop will vary from person to person. This will depend on the number of years you have used vibrating machinery or tools, the intensity of these vibrations and how often you use them. It also depends on the training you’ve received from your employer, the PPE you’ve been provided and any other potential safety measures in place to prevent the condition.
In some cases, the symptoms of VWF can appear as soon as a few months of high-intensity usage — for most, though, it can take years for any symptoms to manifest. The earlier you spot the symptoms, the better, as you can get started on getting treatment and making a potential VWF claim.
Does vibration white finger go away?
Unfortunately, vibration white finger is a permanent condition. The damage caused to blood vessels and nerves by prolonged exposure to vibrations cannot be reversed. However, managing the condition can significantly improve your quality of life and prevent symptoms from worsening.
Early diagnosis is important to slow down the progression of VWF. Avoiding further exposure to vibrating tools and machinery is essential, as is following medical advice on how to manage symptoms. Other steps, such as improving circulation through lifestyle changes, keeping your hands warm, and avoiding smoking, can also help minimise flare-ups.
If your employer failed to protect you from vibration white finger, you might be entitled to compensation. Contact Injury Lawyers 4U today to learn how we can assist you with your claim.
Is vibration white finger a disability?
Depending on how intense your vibration white finger condition has become, it could be considered a disability — this depends on how much it affects your day to day life. In mild cases, VWF might not have too much of an effect on your ability to perform daily tasks, continue working or impede your motor skills. However, more severe cases can drastically affect your hand strength, manual dexterity and general motor functions — making it difficult to perform your standard routine.
As with other HAVS conditions, if your VWF has progressed to the point where it is substantially affecting your daily life, it could be legally classed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 in the UK.
What are the treatment options for vibration white finger?
While vibration white finger cannot be cured, treatment can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the impact of the condition on daily life. Common treatment options include:
- Medical management: Medications, such as vasodilators, can improve blood flow and reduce the frequency and severity of episodes.
- Physiotherapy: Exercises and therapy may help strengthen the hands and arms, improving mobility and reducing discomfort.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Keeping your hands warm, wearing protective gloves, and avoiding smoking can improve circulation and minimise flare-ups.
- Stress management: Techniques like relaxation exercises can help manage stress, which is often a trigger for symptoms.
In severe cases, surgical options may be explored to address blood flow issues. Treatment plans will vary depending on the severity of your condition and the advice of medical professionals.
What is my potential compensation for vibration white finger?
The amount your vibration white finger claim is worth will vary according to the severity of your injury and its impact on your life. Generally, compensation can range from £2,990 for less severe cases to £38,430 for the most severe cases.
Here is a breakdown of compensation ranges according to Judicial College Guidelines, based on severity:
- Minor cases: Between £2,990 to £8,000 for intermittent symptoms in a few fingers, slightly affecting lifestyle.
- Moderate cases: Between £8,000 to £16,000 for symptoms mainly in colder weather, affecting individuals in their middle years who have managed to maintain employment.
- Serious cases: Between £16,000 to £31,000 for noticeable disruption to both work and daily activities, with frequent episodes.
- Most serious cases: Between £31,000 to £38,430 for younger individuals with persistent symptoms that severely disrupt daily life and work.
These figures represent General Damages for the injury. Additionally, you might be eligible for Special Damages including:
- Lost income or pension.
- Costs for ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Care expenses, no matter if care is provided by professionals or family/friends.
- Any necessary modifications made to your home due to your injury.
- Other out-of-pocket costs tied to your condition, whether your own expenses or those caring for you.
At Injury Lawyers 4U, our expert personal injury lawyers are dedicated to ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation possible, not just for the injury itself but for its broader impact on your life.
How long do I have to file a claim for vibration white finger?
In most cases, there’s a three-year window from when your symptoms first appear to begin a vibration white finger claim.
However, this three-year period might not apply under certain conditions:
- If you were a minor (under 18) when the symptoms began, you have until your 21st birthday to make a claim.
- Claiming for injuries sustained while working overseas may have different deadlines – often shorter than those within the UK.
- For families making a claim after a relative’s death due to vibration white finger, the time limit is three years from the date of death or the date of the post-mortem.
Who can help you make a claim?
Injury Lawyers 4U can handle the claim on your behalf and provide you with expert advice every step of the way, including access to medical experts. Our ‘no win, no fee’ solicitors use their extensive experience and knowledge of personal injury and industrial accident claims to help you get the compensation that you deserve. And because we operate on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, we take the risk out of making a claim.
To start moving forward in your vibration white finger claim and get the compensation you deserve, contact the expert solicitors at Injury Lawyers 4U and we’ll contact you at a time that’s convenient for you.
Resources
Statistics courtesy of HSE