Vibration/White Finger Claims

What criteria are needed to qualify for a VWF claim?

To qualify for a VWF claim, a worker must have been exposed to hand-arm vibration in the workplace, either through the regular use of vibrating tools or through working with vibrating machinery. The exposure must have been sufficient to cause VWF, and the worker must have suffered symptoms for a prolonged period of time. The symptoms may include tingling, numbness, pain and whiteness of the fingers. The condition must have resulted in a loss of function or a disability and be supported by a doctor’s diagnosis.

Summary of the legal argument for VWF claims

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers have a duty to provide a safe working environment for their employees. This includes protecting them from exposure to hazardous substances and equipment. Employers are required to conduct risk assessments and provide adequate training and protective equipment to their workers. If an employer has failed to take these measures and a worker has developed VWF as a result, the employer may be liable for compensation. This is because they have failed to honour their commitment and their employee is ultimately paying the price.

What evidence is needed to support VWF claims?

To support a VWF claim, a worker will need to provide medical evidence of their condition. This may include a diagnosis from a medical professional, such as a doctor or an occupational health specialist. The worker will also need to provide evidence of their exposure to vibrating tools and machinery, such as records of their work activities or testimony from colleagues. It may also be necessary to provide evidence of any loss of earnings or other financial losses resulting from the condition.

If you would like help managing your claim and summarising your evidence, the Claims Bible team is on-hand to answer any questions you may have.

A guide to compensation amounts

The compensation amount for vibration and white finger claims will depend on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the impact it has had on your ability to work, and the amount of medical expenses incurred. It will take into account the overall effect your condition has had on you and how it has altered your lifestyle so it’s important to make note of the differences between before and now. Has this condition limited you and stopped you from doing things you regularly did? Do you now need to put a new routine in place to compensate for your debilitating condition? In general, the compensation awarded for vibration and white finger claims can range from a few thousand pounds to several hundred thousand pounds.

For example, if you have been diagnosed with mild vibration or white finger syndrome, you may be entitled to a few thousand pounds in compensation. This will cover any medical expenses you have incurred and any loss of earnings you have experienced as a result of the condition. It may also cover the cost of any adaptations you need to make to your home or workplace to accommodate your condition.

The claim process overview

The first step in making a vibration or white finger claim is to contact a solicitor who specialises in these types of cases. Your solicitor will be able to advise you on whether you have a strong case and what evidence you will need to support your claim.

Once you have engaged a solicitor, they will begin the process of gathering evidence to support your claim. This may involve obtaining medical records, conducting medical examinations, and obtaining witness statements from co-workers or others who can attest to the conditions under which you worked.

Common questions

What is the difference between vibration and white finger?

Vibration is a condition caused by exposure to vibrating tools or machinery, which can lead to numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and arms. White finger, also known as Raynaud’s phenomenon, is a condition that causes the fingers to turn white or blue and become painful or numb in response to cold temperatures or stress.