What Are Vibration White Finger Claims?
Vibration White Finger (VWF) is a condition caused by long-term use of vibrating tools or machinery. It affects blood flow and nerves in the hands and fingers, leading to numbness, tingling, and loss of grip.
If your employer failed to protect you while working with vibrating tools and you developed this condition, you could be entitled to make a vibration white finger claim.
What Causes Vibration White Finger?
This condition is often linked to jobs involving constant use of power tools such as:
- Pneumatic drills and jackhammers
- Chainsaws and grinders
- Sanders and hammer drills
- Impact wrenches
- Lawn mowers and strimmers
When used for long periods without proper breaks or protection, these tools can cause serious long-term damage.
Symptoms of Vibration White Finger
The symptoms can develop slowly but become worse over time. Common signs include:
- Fingers turning white in cold temperatures
- Tingling or numbness in the hands
- Loss of strength and grip
- Pain or throbbing in the fingers
- Difficulty handling small objects
If untreated, the condition may lead to permanent disability.
Who Can Make Vibration White Finger Claims?
You may be able to claim compensation if:
- You regularly used vibrating tools at work
- Your employer failed to provide protective gloves or safe equipment
- No proper breaks or job rotations were given
- You now suffer symptoms linked to vibration white finger
Both current and former workers can make a claim, as long as it’s within the time limit.
Employer Responsibilities
Under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, employers must:
- Assess and control vibration risks
- Provide safe equipment and maintain it properly
- Limit the time employees use vibrating tools
- Supply protective equipment like gloves
- Monitor workers’ health for early symptoms
If your employer failed in these duties, you may have a strong case for compensation.
How Much Compensation Can You Get for Vibration White Finger?
The amount of vibration white finger compensation depends on how severe your condition is and how it affects your life.
Typical Compensation Ranges
- Mild symptoms, occasional discomfort: £2,000 – £7,000
- Moderate symptoms, reduced grip strength: £7,000 – £15,000
- Severe symptoms, ongoing disability: £15,000 – £30,000+
Compensation may also cover:
- Lost income and future earnings
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation
- Impact on quality of life
Vibration White Finger vs Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS)
Vibration White Finger is often linked with Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).
- VWF – affects mainly the fingers and circulation
- HAVS – includes nerve and muscle damage in the whole hand and arm
Both conditions are serious and can form the basis of a compensation claim.
How to Prove a Vibration White Finger Claim
Evidence plays a key role. Helpful documents include:
- Medical diagnosis from a GP or specialist
- Employment records showing tool usage
- Health and safety reports at work
- Witness statements from colleagues
- Proof of financial losses (wages, treatment costs)
No Win, No Fee Vibration White Finger Claims
At Claims 24 Hours, we handle cases on a No Win, No Fee basis.
- No upfront costs
- No hidden charges
- Pay nothing if your claim isn’t successful
This means you can claim without financial risk.
Time Limits for Vibration White Finger Claims
You usually have three years to start a claim, counted from:
- The date you were diagnosed, or
- The date you realised your symptoms were work-related
How Long Do Vibration White Finger Claims Take?
- Simple cases: May settle within 6–9 months
- Complex cases: Can take 12–18 months, especially if medical evidence is disputed
FAQs about Vibration White Finger Claims
Can I claim if I used tools years ago?
Yes. You can claim if diagnosed recently, even if exposure happened years before.
Do I need to still work at the same job?
No. Former employees can also claim.
What if I already claimed for another vibration injury?
You may still be entitled to further compensation if symptoms have worsened.
Will my employer be upset if I claim?
Claims are against insurance, not your employer directly. It’s illegal for them to dismiss you for claiming.
Is vibration white finger permanent?
In many cases, yes. Symptoms can be managed but not always cured.
Why Choose Claims 24 Hours for Vibration White Finger Claims?
- Free initial advice
- Experienced workplace injury solicitors
- Clear guidance throughout your claim
- No Win, No Fee guarantee
- Available 24/7 for support
Start Your Vibration White Finger Claim Today
If you’re suffering from vibration white finger because of unsafe working conditions, don’t wait. You may be entitled to compensation for your pain, financial losses, and reduced quality of life.
Contact Claims 24 Hours today for free advice and start your vibration white finger claim with our No Win, No Fee experts.