Can I claim compensation for Vibration White Finger (VWF)?

Coodes has recently observed a notable rise in Vibration White Finger (VWF) claims. This reflects a growing awareness of the condition and its impact on workers. The increase highlights the importance of ensuring proper protection and support for those exposed to vibrating tools and machinery. Failure by employers to protect workers from such exposure can have devastating impacts and create the potential for life-long injuries.

If you’ve developed VWF as a result of your work environment, you may be entitled to compensation. David Usher, Associate in Coodes’ Personal Injury team, explains the claims process.

What is Vibration White Finger?

Vibration White Finger is a condition affecting the blood vessels and nerves in the hands. It is a serious, and often debilitating, condition affecting people who have been exposed to hand-arm vibration over extended periods. It is often associated with jobs that require the use of power tools such as construction workers, miners, factory workers and others who regularly use equipment such as drills, pneumatic hammers and chainsaws. The condition can also occur in those who operate heavy machinery or perform repetitive tasks causing the hand to vibrate.

Symptoms and causes of VWF

The primary symptom of VWF is whitening or paleness of the fingers often accompanied by a cold sensation and numbness. This is due to restricted blood flow to the fingers, with symptoms triggered by cold temperatures or rest periods when the body is not in motion.

Over time, people may experience persistent pain, tingling and reduction in grip or the ability to perform fine motor tasks.

Caused by hand-arm vibration over extended periods, tiny blood vessels constrict and reduce blood flow and oxygen to the fingers. Over time, and without preventative personal protective equipment (PPE), this can lead to irreversible damage.

VWF is often difficult to diagnose at first, as the symptoms tend to develop gradually over a long period of time. However, if left unchecked, it can cause permanent damage and disability. Living with VWF can significantly impact both your personal and professional life. For many, the symptoms can lead to significant limitations in their ability to work and perform basic daily tasks.

Physical and emotional effects

As touched upon above, the physical effects of VWF are significant. Constant pain, reduced movement and numbness in the fingers make it harder for individuals to work with their hands. This may result in them having to stop working or switch careers altogether. For some, this might mean a drastic reduction in income, which can create financial strain. In severe cases, permanent disability could result, further affecting the person’s ability to live independently.

In addition to the physical toll, there are also emotional and psychological impacts. Many workers with VWF report feelings of frustration, depression or anxiety. It goes without saying that when a person can no longer do the work they once enjoyed or depended upon, it can lead to a loss of self-esteem and overall quality of life. The emotional toll, combined with the physical limitations, can be overwhelming for those affected by the condition.

Lifestyle and occupational changes

VWF in its worst form will often require lifestyle adaptations and adjustments. These can range from changing your working environment, using PPE or permanently altering your career path.

For individuals with advanced VWF, there may be no choice but to stop working in jobs involving vibration. The need for additional medical treatment, such as physiotherapy or surgery to address joint and circulation issues, might also arise, adding extra costs to daily life.

The potential for compensation

If you’ve developed VWF due to your work, you may be entitled to compensation. Under UK law, workers have the right to claim compensation if they develop conditions like VWF due to their employer’s negligence or failure to provide adequate protective measures. Employers are legally obligated to ensure the safety of their workers by regularly assessing workplace conditions, providing protective equipment (PPE), and offering training on vibration hazards. If these obligations aren’t met, workers can hold employers accountable through a personal injury claim.

To file a personal injury claim for VWF, you must prove that your condition was caused by your employer’s negligence (known as causation). This involves demonstrating that you were exposed to dangerous levels of vibration for prolonged periods without adequate protection. Medical evidence, such as a formal diagnosis from a healthcare professional, will be crucial in supporting your claim. It’s also important to have documentation of your work history and any relevant safety procedures that were or were not in place.

The process of filing a claim can be extremely complex. It is highly recommended to consult with a solicitor specialising in personal injury law. Coodes can help you gather the necessary evidence, navigate the legal system and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

What compensation can you expect?

The amount of compensation you can receive for Vibration White Finger depends on the severity of the condition, the impact on your life and the extent to which it has affected your ability to work.

Compensation can cover:

• Pain and suffering: This refers to the physical and emotional impact VWF has had on your life, including pain, mental distress and loss of quality of life.
• Loss of earnings: If you are unable to work or need to change careers due to VWF, you can claim compensation for the wages you’ve lost, both past and future. (i.e. if any new employment is paid less than your previous job).
• Medical costs: This includes the cost of treatment, physiotherapy, surgery or any other medical expenses related to managing VWF.
• Care costs: In cases where VWF results in permanent disability, you may be entitled to compensation to cover care and assistance costs.

The value of compensation can vary significantly but with proper legal representation, such as that you can expect with Coodes, you can ensure you receive a fair settlement. Our specialist personal injury solicitors understand the toll that workplace injuries can have on individuals and their families and act sympathetically and professionally. Get in touch with David Usher for more information on VWF claims by calling 01326 213 031 or emailing david.usher@coodes.co.uk. Alternatively, you can fill in our online contact form to be signposted to further assistance.