What is Vibration White Finger (VWF)
VWF or as it is now known
Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome is an industrial disease caused by
the exposure of the hands to severe vibrations from hand-held tools
or pieces of equipment, such as pneumatic drills, chainsaws and grinders.
Key Information:
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What causes it?
The vibration causes neurological and vascular symptoms which are
believed to be due to the repeated pressure on the nerves and arteries
of the hands.
Symptoms of VWF
Symptoms can lay latent for a considerable period of time and include:
- tingling sensation in the fingers
- numbness in the fingertips
- cold sensation in the fingers
- whitening of the fingers
- loss of dexterity
- muscular aches and pains in hands and lower arms
The severity of the condition can vary depending on the length
and level of exposure suffered by the individual. Vibration White Finger
can affect any individual who has used hand held or operated vibratory tools or
equipment at work over a period of time.
Signs of Vibration White Finger
- Initially fingers are white and cool, then
- Fingers turn blue, and
- Fingers go bright red sometimes causing a pins and needles sensation, throbbing,
severe pain or numbness
These attacks can vary in length and severity. Sometimes fingers will remain a blueish
colour.
If you believe you have symptoms of Vibration White Finger you should contact your
GP, report your concerns to your employer and if relevant your union representative.
Preventing VWF
- Ask to use low-vibration tools
- Take regular breaks whilst using vibration tools
- Store tools in a warm environment so they do have very cold handles when used
- Your employer should provide suitable protective clothing
- Be aware that severe temperatures can also affect you when using vibration tools
Claiming compensation for your industrial injury
Simpson Millar LLP Solicitors has a highly experienced occupational disease team
that can help you to claim
compensation.
Simpson Millar LLP's specialist team of dedicated and highly skilled
solicitors deal with Vibration White Finger cases frequently and will advise you
fully and help you to make a compensation claim.
Call our helpline today on 0808 129 3320 or use our free, no obligation,
online enquiry form and we will call you back.
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