Hand arm vibration syndrome

Hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is an industrial condition caused by working with vibrating tools.  It can cause tingling in the hands, numbness in the fingers and sometimes aching in the wrists and muscles of the forearm.  If you have suffered from HAVS, you may be entitled to compensation. 

Symptoms of hand arm vibration syndrome

Sometimes HAVS is also called vibration white finger, although white fingers are just one symptom.  Sufferers usually recover if the vibration stops, but the more you are exposed to vibration, the more likely it is you will suffer permanent symptoms.  There is little effective treatment.

The condition can be permanent, making it difficult to handle small items and affecting sensitivity in the hands.  This can stop you working or doing even simple tasks at home.

Causes of hand arm vibration syndrome

HAVS is normally suffered by workers in the mining, steel and engineering industries.  The activities likely to involve working with vibrating machinery include:

• Percussive tools e.g., riveting, caulking, fettling and swaging
• Grinding, including pedestal and hand-held grinders
• Pneumatic drills and hammers, including percussive and rotary hammers
• Chain saws, including garden machinery.
  

The best way to avoid suffering HAVS is to prevent workers having to use the vibrating machinery or by limiting their exposure.  Regular medical reviews are also important to spot early symptoms.

The condition has been known about for some years, but many employers will not be held responsible for exposure to vibration before 1975.

Claims Direct can help

Call Claims Direct now on 0800 884 0321 for a free first discussion about your hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) claim.  You can speak to a trained representative, or leave your details on our online web form and we’ll call your right back.