How to Make a Vibration White Finger Claim in the UK

Table of Contents

1. What Is Vibration White Finger?

Vibration White Finger (VWF) is a condition caused by prolonged use of vibrating tools and machinery. It affects blood vessels, nerves, and joints in the fingers, leading to numbness, tingling, pain, and even permanent disability. VWF is a form of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).

2. Causes of Vibration White Finger

VWF commonly affects workers who operate vibrating tools for extended periods, including:

Pneumatic drills
Grinders and sanders
Chainsaws
Concrete breakers
Compactors or wacker plates
Strimmers and hedge trimmers

Lack of proper safety measures or breaks during tool use often leads to this condition.

3. Your Employer’s Responsibilities

Under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, employers are legally required to:

Assess the risk of vibration exposure
Provide training and protective equipment
Rotate tasks and limit tool use time
Conduct regular health surveillance

Failure to do so could make them liable for compensation if VWF develops.

4. Symptoms of Vibration White Finger

Common signs include:

Whiteness or blanching of fingers, especially in cold
Tingling or numbness in hands
Loss of manual dexterity
Difficulty gripping tools or performing fine tasks
Pain or discomfort during or after tool use

These symptoms can worsen over time if untreated.

5. Who Can Make a VWF Claim?

You can claim if:

You developed symptoms while working with vibrating tools
Your employer failed to follow safety regulations
The diagnosis occurred within the last 3 years (UK limitation period)
You suffered loss of earnings, pain, or reduced quality of life

Even retired workers may be eligible if the condition was diagnosed recently.

6. How to File a Vibration White Finger Claim

Here’s how to start the process:

Seek medical diagnosis from a GP or specialist
Contact a solicitor experienced in industrial disease claims
Provide evidence of:
- Work history and tool usage
- Employer negligence
- Medical reports
File a claim with the employer’s insurer or through the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) scheme if eligible
Your solicitor will handle negotiations or court proceedings if needed

7. How Much Compensation Can You Receive?

Compensation depends on severity and impact. Typical ranges:

Mild symptoms (intermittent numbness, occasional blanching): £2,500–£8,000
Moderate symptoms (regular pain, limited dexterity): £8,000–£16,000
Severe VWF (daily symptoms, permanent loss of function): £16,000–£30,000+

Additional claims may include:

Loss of earnings
Medical and travel costs
Pension loss
Care and support needs

8. VWF and the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)

If diagnosed with VWF caused by work:

You may qualify for IIDB, a non-means-tested government benefit
The amount depends on the assessed level of disability
You can claim IIDB alongside a compensation claim through a solicitor

Check your eligibility and apply via gov.uk.

9. Do You Need a Solicitor?

Yes. A solicitor will:

Gather work and medical evidence
Prove your employer’s liability
Estimate fair compensation
Represent you in negotiations or court

Most offer no win no fee services, meaning you pay nothing unless the claim succeeds.

10. Time Limits and Exceptions

Generally, you must claim within:

3 years from diagnosis or awareness of the condition
Longer extensions may apply in some occupational disease cases, especially if symptoms develop gradually

Don’t delay—seek legal advice as soon as symptoms arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I claim if I used vibrating tools years ago?
Yes, if your symptoms were diagnosed or linked to past work within the last 3 years.

2. Can I claim VWF under IIDB without a solicitor?
Yes, but a solicitor may help you pursue additional compensation through legal action.

3. What evidence do I need?
Medical diagnosis, proof of tool use, employment records, and expert medical reports.

4. Can I still claim if the company no longer exists?
Yes. Your solicitor can trace former employers’ insurance companies to file your claim.

5. Is VWF a recognised occupational disease?
Yes. It is officially recognised and compensable under both UK law and the IIDB scheme.

6. Will I have to go to court?
Most claims are settled out of court. Your solicitor will handle proceedings if necessary.

Conclusion

If you’ve developed symptoms of Vibration White Finger, you may be entitled to compensation for the pain and disruption caused by your job. Whether you’re still working or retired, it’s never too late to seek justice. With expert legal help and medical documentation, you can file a vibration white finger claim and recover the compensation you deserve.

Martin taggart