A HAVS compensation claim generally arises as a result of a machinery operator suffering from a serious medical condition called Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) usually caused by using vibrating machinery for extended periods of time. Those working in the construction industry are particularly at risk of HAVS as they spend most of their employment using hand held vibrating machines. Drills, sanders, grinders, concrete breakers and chainsaws are among the worst offending equipment. Symptoms can develop slowly over many years and are sometimes hard to spot. If you think you may be suffering from Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome because of employer neglect, you should contact us as soon as possible for advice on a HAVS compensation claim.
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Vibration White Finger
The most common form of HAVS is Vibration White Finger (VWF). This is a condition where blood flow is restricted, causing the fingers to turn white and is accompanied by a tingling sensation and/or pain in the fingers caused by damaged nerves. VWF can also be associated with HAVS which may cause pain and discomfort throughout the arm, wrists, elbows and hands. Other symptoms of VWF include loss of feeling in the fingers, especially in cold weather, which can make it hard to carry out dexterous tasks. Usually a diagnosis will accompany a history of working with hand-held power tools - it may be necessary to see a VWF specialist before being correctly diagnosed. Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, the person suffering from VWF should urgently consider seeing a solicitor to make a VWF or HAVS compensation claim
SOLICITORS HELPLINE 0844 764 1354
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome
HAVS symptoms can be split into three distinct categories being vascular, neurological and musculoskeletal. Vascular HAVS is the main issue causing Vibration White Finger. Neurological symptoms include tingling and numbness of the hands and/or fingers. Musculoskeletal symptoms cause pain in the muscles, joints and tendons of the arm and hand. Compensation for all of these symptoms is payable in a HAVS compensation claim. Another condition called Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is associated with HAVS. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the nerve that runs from the arm into the hand is pressured as it passes through the wrist.
SOLICITORS HELPLINE 0844 764 1354
Health & Safety
There are several pro-active ways to try to combat HAVS such as ensuring power tools are held as loosely as is safely possible. Minimising the time spent using and the time in between operating vibrating machinery will also help. If you begin to suffer from HAVS then you must stop using vibrating machinery immediately. The effects are irreversible and get progressively worse over time. You may need to change profession to prevent the symptoms from getting worse. Smoking is also known to contribute to VWF and HAVS symptoms by reducing the flow of blood to the extremities.
SOLICITORS HELPLINE 0844 764 1354
Free Legal Advice
Our solicitors operate nationwide and deal with claims using the no win no fee scheme. Compensation is always paid in full with no deductions and there is no need to finance your claim. If the case is lost you still pay nothing. If after talking to us you decide not to take matters further then you are under no obligation to do so and you will not be charged for our advice.
