Thousands of workers in the UK are exposed to vibration mechanical devices in the workplace and are injured as a result. The injuries that can be caused are in two forms; Hand-Arm Vibration (HAV) can cause injury to the hands and upper limbs through frequent use of power tools. Whole-Body Vibration (HBV) can cause musculoskeletal disorders of the spinal system where the body is constantly shaken by a machine or an industrial vehicle.
Vibration White Finger and Hand-Arm Vibration (HAV) Syndrome
Vibration White Finger, also sometimes referred to as Raynaud’s Disease is a condition which is caused from continuous use of vibrating power tools.
Vibration White Finger causes the fingers to go numb and turn white.
Common symptoms include:
- Tingling and numbness in the fingers
- Fingertips in your hand turn white and may be painful
- Cold sensation in the fingers
- Fingers may go into spasm
Whole Body Vibration (HBV) Injuries
Whole Body Vibration is a recognised and widespread industrial problem. It is caused from regular, prolonged and frequent vibrations passing through the body when using industrial plant machinery and vehicles.
The most widely reported symptom of Whole Body Vibration is lower back pain resulting from degeneration in the spinal vertebra or of the discs, thus causing compression and pain. Other symptoms may also include:
- Digestive disorders
- Dizziness, motion sickness and headaches
- Insomnia
If your work involved working with vibrating power tools such as pneumatic drills, grinders, chain saws or other types of industrial machinery such as industrial vehicles and are suffering from the above symptoms or have been diagnosed as having one of the above conditions, you might have a claim for compensation.
The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 have come into force recently to protect people against the risk to their health arising from exposure to vibration at work . It requires employers to take measures to control vibration risks and to limit daily exposure.
Further information and guidance can be found on the Vibration Homepage on the HSE website which you can visit by clicking here.
Making a claim
We work with specialist solicitors who are experts in Vibration Induced Injury Claims and have successfully represented and won cases on behalf of many clients.
If you would like to discuss making a claim or for more information call us free on 0800 505 3397 to speak to one of our advisers or submit your claim online by completing our online claim form.
Please note that strict time limits apply for making a Personal Injury Claim. If you are considering making a claim, we advise that you pursue it as soon as possible. To read more about time limits click here.
