1. What Is a White Finger Claim?
A white finger claim—also known as a Vibration White Finger (VWF) or Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) claim—is made when prolonged use of vibrating tools at work leads to:
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers
- White or blue fingers in cold temperatures
- Reduced grip strength
- Pain or discomfort in the hands
It’s an industrial injury that often affects workers in construction, forestry, engineering, and manufacturing.
2. Are You Eligible to Claim?
You may be eligible to make a white finger claim if:
- You regularly used vibrating tools such as drills, grinders, sanders, chainsaws, or pneumatic tools
- Your employer didn’t provide proper protection or breaks
- You now suffer from symptoms consistent with HAVS or VWF
Even if your symptoms developed over time, you may still be entitled to claim.
3. Get a Medical Diagnosis for VWF
To file a valid white finger claim, a formal medical diagnosis is essential. Visit your GP or an occupational health specialist and request:
- A HAVS or VWF assessment
- A written medical report outlining your condition and its severity
- Details on how work-related vibration exposure caused or worsened your condition
Your solicitor will also arrange for an independent expert to assess your condition.
4. Understand the Time Limit to Claim
In the UK, the general time limit for a white finger claim is 3 years from:
- The date of diagnosis
OR - When you first became aware that your condition was linked to work (the “date of knowledge”)
Act quickly, as missing this deadline could mean you lose your right to compensation.
5. Collect Evidence from Your Work History
Gather any evidence that proves:
- The type of vibrating tools you used
- The frequency and duration of exposure
- Whether or not protective equipment or training was provided
- Witness statements from co-workers who had similar duties
Even if the employer has shut down, a solicitor can trace past insurers to pursue your claim.
6. Speak to a Specialist Industrial Injury Solicitor
Industrial disease claims like VWF are complex and require legal expertise. A solicitor specialising in workplace vibration injuries will:
- Evaluate your case for free
- Handle all paperwork and evidence gathering
- Act on a no win no fee basis
- Help you secure the maximum compensation
They’ll also deal with employers and insurers on your behalf.
7. Know What You Can Claim For
Your white finger claim may include:
- General damages for pain, suffering, and reduced hand function
- Special damages for lost earnings, medical expenses, travel, or retraining
- Future damages if your injury prevents you from returning to work
Compensation depends on the severity of the condition and its impact on your life.
8. Typical White Finger Compensation Amounts
Here are average white finger claim payouts (based on 2025 guidelines):
- Mild VWF (occasional numbness): £2,500 – £7,000
- Moderate VWF (intermittent symptoms, work impact): £7,000 – £15,000
- Severe VWF (daily symptoms, loss of employment): £15,000 – £30,000+
A medical report will determine your severity level.
9. File Your Claim Without Delay
Once diagnosed, it’s best to start your white finger claim immediately. Early action allows for:
- Easier access to witness statements
- Preservation of employment records
- Quicker settlement or trial if necessary
Your solicitor will guide you through every stage of the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a white finger claim years after exposure?
Yes, as long as you’re within 3 years of diagnosis or when you realised your symptoms were work-related.
What if my employer no longer exists?
You can still claim. Your solicitor will trace their historic liability insurers to pursue compensation.
Is white finger covered under industrial injury benefits?
Yes, you may be eligible for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) as well as a compensation claim.
Do I need proof of tool usage?
It helps, but your solicitor can request employment records and collect supporting evidence from former colleagues.
What if I used protective gloves but still got VWF?
You may still have a claim if your employer failed to manage overall vibration exposure properly or ignored symptoms.
Will I need to go to court?
Most claims settle out of court. However, your solicitor will prepare a strong case in case legal proceedings are needed.
Conclusion
A white finger claim isn’t just about financial compensation—it’s about recognising the long-term impact of unsafe working conditions. If you’ve suffered due to vibration exposure at work, you have the legal right to seek justice. With expert legal support, medical evidence, and quick action, you can claim what you’re entitled to and secure your future.