Vibration White Finger is one component of the condition known as Hand/Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), and the two names are often used interchangeably for variations of the same ailment. Vibration White Finger is so called because it is caused by intense and prolonged exposure to vibrations – such as those created by power tools, heavy machinery, agricultural vehicles etc – leading to the fingers becoming periodically white.
This whiteness is a result of spasms in the blood vessels in the fingers, which creates a lack of oxygen, also leading to numbness or tingling and pain. As well as the physical discomfort and distress, the condition can make it difficult to carry out vital everyday tasks and lead to a significant decline in your quality of life.
Other wider symptoms of HAVS are often also present in cases of Vibration White Finger, including pain, tingling and aches in the arms.
How common is VBW?
Though regulations 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 2010/11 there were 1,045 new claims for disablement benefit due to Vibration White Finger. As this statistic only counts those who have actually claimed for the condition, 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 obtain the compensation that you are rightfully entitled to.
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 thrust of your compensation claim will be proving 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.
Who can help you make a claim?
InjuryLawyers4U 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 InjuryLawyers4U and we’ll contact you at a time that’s convenient for you.
Resources
Statistics courtesy of HSE
