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Vibration White Finger

Vibration white finger is a recognised industrial disease affecting tens of thousands of workers.
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Vibration White Finger (VWF)

Vibration White Finger (VWF), also known as Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), is a condition caused by prolonged exposure to vibrating hand-held tools. It primarily affects the blood vessels, nerves, muscles, and joints in the hands and arms. The most recognisable symptom of white finger is the blanching or whitening of the fingertips, often accompanied by numbness and tingling. These symptoms are typically worse in cold conditions. As the condition progresses it can lead to more severe problems, including loss of sensation, weakness in the hands, and pain in the fingers, hands, and arms. Occupations that involve the regular use of vibrating tools, such as construction, forestry, and engineering, are at higher risk of white finger. The severity of symptoms depends on factors like the intensity of vibration, duration of exposure, and individual susceptibility. It’s crucial to prevent white finger by minimising exposure to vibration. Employers have a duty of care to provide protective measures, such as regular tool maintenance, anti-vibration gloves, and regular breaks. If you suspect you may be experiencing symptoms of white finger it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and advice. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and prevent further deterioration. While there’s no cure for white finger, various treatments can help manage symptoms, including medication, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy.

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Symptoms of Vibration White Finger

The symptoms of vibration white finger include any combination of:

  • Tingling and numbness in the fingers.
  • Not being able to feel things properly.
  • Loss of strength in the hands.
  • Fingers going white and becoming red and painful on recovery. Especially in the cold and/or wet.

For some people, symptoms may appear after only a few months of exposure, but for others they may take a few years. They are likely to get worse with continued exposure to vibration and may become permanent.

Can I Claim Compensation for Vibration White Finger?

The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations place duties on employers and the self-employed to assess and identify measures to eliminate or reduce risks from exposure to hand-arm vibration.

If this is not the case, then you may be able to make a claim against your employer, as they, like every employer, have a duty of care to ensure that their employees are safe at work.

If you believe that you have a claim for vibration white finger, contact our specialists now to have a no-obligation discussion about your potential case.

Vibration White Finger Treatment

Vibration White Finger (VWF) is a condition caused by prolonged exposure to vibrating tools. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and blanching of the fingers, often exacerbated by cold temperatures. While there’s no cure, management focuses on symptom relief and preventing further damage. This may involve reducing vibration exposure, smoking cessation, maintaining hand warmth, and potential medication. Early intervention is crucial to minimise long-term effects. Medical advice should be sought for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Does Vibration White Finger Go Away?

Vibration White Finger (VWF) is a persistent condition with no known cure. While early diagnosis and cessation of vibration exposure may improve symptoms, severe cases can lead to permanent damage.  Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing further deterioration. Factors such as the severity of white finger, duration of exposure, and individual response to treatment influence the progression of the condition. Regular medical assessment is essential for monitoring symptoms and exploring potential treatment options.

What is Most Likely to Cause Vibration White Finger?

Vibration White Finger (VWF) is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to vibrating hand-held tools, such as:

  • Jackhammers.
  • Concrete breakers.
  • Sanders.
  • Grinders.
  • Powered mowers.
  • Chainsaws.
  • Hedge trimmers.
  • Rotary equipment.

Occupations involving the use of power tools such as jackhammers, chainsaws, and grinders are particularly at risk, these include, but not limited to:

  • Construction.
  • Rail/road maintenance.
  • Engineering.
  • Mining.
  • Ground Maintenance.

The level of vibration, duration of exposure, and individual susceptibility can influence the development of white finger. It’s important to note that other factors, like cold temperatures, can exacerbate symptoms but are not the primary cause of the condition.

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