Council worker wins £3000 vibration white finger (VWF) compensation

Vibration injury victim wins £3,000  

It is estimated by the Health and Safety Executive that around five million people in the UK are exposed to hand-arm vibration in the workplace. 

Two million of those are at clear risk of developing the disease.   Joseph Beale was one of those most at risk. 

He had been in the service of his local council for over ten years and had regularly used power tools such as road tools, strimmers and mowers.  

Mr Beale developed Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome, a painful and potentially disabling disorder. He claimed that, despite over a decade working with vibrating tools, the Council had never warned him about the possible dangers. 

When the disease developed, Mr Beale had no idea what it was.  

Mr Beale received £3,000 in compensation.   A large number of workers have experienced similar difficulties. 

Organisations such as UNISON say more must be done to avoid vibration injuries and raise awareness.  If you have experienced something similar, you may be able to make an industrial disease claim.  We would suggest you seek legal advice.

NEWS:

Case of Maxfield discussing how to properly identify HAVs symptoms - 24th October 2008