Hand arm vibration syndrome

People most likely to acquire the hand arm vibration syndrome are people operating with the industrial and building trade. Exposure to vibrating power tools such as chainsaws, grinders, concrete breakers, mowers, hedge trimmers and pneumatic drills for long periods of time can lead to the development of this syndrome. Employers are required to fulfil their duty of care by providing suitable safety equipment and ensuring suitable break times are put in place, failure to fulfil this duty of care can leave the employer liable to compensation claims.
There are certain symptoms to look out for which are connected to hand arm vibration syndrome. To begin the syndrome has an impact on the blood vessels, joint and muscles, within the arm, hands and finger. Sharp painful twinges are reported by many sufferers. If these pains continue for a prolonged period of time, medical advice should be gained as a diagnosis of the syndrome may be relevant. Another typical symptom related to the syndrome is a cold sensation within fingers, which often develops into numbness in the fingertips. This can impact upon the ability to grip properly and also difficulty in holding things for a long period of time. A symptom which is normally noted early by many sufferers is a tingling feeling within the finger tips, this can not be stopped and continues for a short period of time but many times. One final symptom is the colour of the skin on the finger tips turning in a distinct white colour, this is often a given sign that the individual more than likely has hand arm vibration syndrome. Some people may also find that the above symptoms impact upon their sleeping pattern and some may also find that the symptoms develop further when the weather is cold.
Claims for hand arm vibration syndrome are not unusual, in the 1970s it was recognised that the extensive use of vibration power tools can lead to such injuries. Due to this, there have been many successful claims for the syndromes, many miners have claimed for the syndrome and been successful within the claims process. Due to the amount of miners being successful in claims for the syndrome, employers now recognise that it is within their interest to ensure a safe working environment is provided. Despite this, some people are still highly likely to catch the syndrome; this is especially people who hold conditions such as asthma.
In order to pursue a compensation claim for hand arm vibration syndrome, a doctors report will be required stating the injury which has been sustained and also how this injury has developed. Not only this but the employer may have to be proven to have flaunted the legislation to provide a safe working environment. Without medical or factual evidence proving this, it is unlikely that a claim will be successful. The number of previous claims in this area has led to many employers changing their policies related to use of such power tools in order to minimise the amount of claims brought against the organisation.