Vibration White Finger Disease

Vibration white finger is a condition caused by a restriction of blood supply to areas of the body such as fingers, toes, arms and ears. It can affect people who work with vibrating power tools such as pneumatic and power drills, power mowers, chain saws and sanders, or any kind of tool that usually makes a person’s hand or fingers go numb or feel tingly after a few minutes of using the tool.

Vibration white finger condition affects many people who have worked with power tools and is generally irreversible which means many employees who suffer from this can lose their job as it can lead to numbness in the hands and a very weak grip.

Employers who provide power tools to employees should take all the necessary steps in order to protect employees from Vibration White Finger disease, these steps should include:

• Full risk assessment of the workplace tasks
• Provide the most appropriate tools for the job
• If risks of Vibration White Finger are identified the company should look at reducing usage time of the tools or provide more suitable alternative
• Ensure employees are fully trained in using the tools and also how to exercise their fingers and hands in order to increase the blood circulation which will help prevent the disease

If you suffer from Vibration White Finger disease and your employer did not take steps to prevent this happening you may be able to make a claim for compensation.

Call Precision Claims on 0844 704 1945 or enquire online.