HAVS and VWF

Hand/ Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a disease of the hand and fingers caused by excessive exposure to hand held vibratory tools. This condition is more commonly referred to as “vibration white finger” (VWF).

The condition is prevalent in occupations that involve the frequent use of vibrating power tools such as pneumatic drills. Industries predominately at risk include road and construction workers, motor vehicle repair workers and fitters.

Symptoms of HAVS/ VWF

There can be three components to HAVS/ VWF

• Attacks of blanching (whiteness) in the fingers
• Numbness and tingling in the fingers resulting in a loss of dexterity and sensation, and
• Muscle/ bone disorders, causing problems such as a reduction in grip or strength

All three components are not always present; it can be one or more of the components listed. The more intense and lengthy the exposure to vibration, the worse the symptoms are likely to be.

Making a VWF Claim

Employers must carry out risk assessments to assess the damaging effects of excessive exposure to vibration. Job rotation, warnings of the risks of developing this condition and regular medical checks are further measures which can be taken by employers to reduce the risk of workers developing this condition.

Employers can only be held legally responsible if it can be shown that they ought to have known that excessive exposure to vibration through the use of hand held vibratory tools at work may result in workers developing HAVS/ VWF.

There has to be exposure to unsafe levels of vibration and expert evidence may be required to assess whether or not a worker has been exposed to safe or unsafe levels of vibration.

If you have been affected by Hand/ Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) or Vibration White Finger (VWF) as a result of your work, please speak to our expert industrial disease solicitors today.