Vibration-induced White Finger (VWF) is the most common symptom of Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). It does not become apparent immediately after the initial exposure to vibration and workers may not complain of symptoms for months or even years.
Excessive exposure to hand arm vibrations can result in various patterns of diseases casually known Vibration White Finger. This can affect nerves, joints, muscles, blood vessels or connective tissues of the hand and forearm:
The symptoms of Vibration White Finger can include numbness or tingling of the fingers, a cold feeling in the hands and fingers and a white colouring to the fingers. This can result in a loss of dexterity and pain in the fingers, hands and arms. As a result everyday tasks such as fastening buttons, tying a shoelace, using a telephone and so on can be much more difficult.
It is classed as an industrial disease because it often affects people who work with vibrating power tools, such as hammers and jigger picks, concrete breakers, sanders and angle grinders, pneumatic drills, power drills, hedge trimmers, strimmers, chain saws, hammer drills and jigsaws, needle guns, power mowers and grinders. Vibration White Finger can also be a risk to employees who work in extremely cold temperatures.
Since the mid 1970s most employers have been aware that the use of hand held vibrating tools can cause damage to their employee’s fingers. Furthermore, Employers have a responsibility to protect their employees from Vibration White Finger injuries. They must provide you with the necessary tools to carry out your job and employers have a legal obligation to provide safe working conditions for their employees.
There are strict time limits in personal injury and industrial diseases claims such as Vibration White Finger Compensation. Don’t delay making your Vibration White Finger Claim and Contact Us immediately for free initial advice.
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