After excessive exposure and regular use of vibrating tools during his employment as a surface operative, our client received £17,500 in compensation for the painful symptoms he now suffers.

Mark Lennon, a Solicitor in the workplace illness team of Irwin Mitchell’s Birmingham office, assisted with gaining compensation for the gentleman who sustained the work related condition known as 'Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome' (HAVS).

HAVS is caused by excessive exposure to hand transmitted vibration from vibrating tools. It is a permanent condition that is irreversible. It is preventable if employers follow strict guidelines set out in regulations, which include educating the workforce about the risk of HAVS, implementing routine medical surveillance, monitoring the level of vibration exposure and taking steps to reduce an individual’s exposure, such as by rotating the time spent using tools or adapting equipment.

Background

Our client, who is in his early 40s, was employed by Morrison Utility Services between 2005 to 2013 and his job involved replacing gas utilities at various locations in the Midlands. He operated a variety of hand held vibrating tools as part of this process, including Jack Hammers, Road Saws and Stihl Saws to access the underground gas pipes, then trench rammers to compact the new surfaces.

As a result of his work with Morrison Utility Services he developed painful symptoms affecting both hands, including the loss of sensitivity in his fingers and his ability to perform fine tasks. He now struggles with daily attacks of numbness and tingling in his fingers which are made worse when spending time outside in cold or wet conditions.

How We Helped 

Our client commented; "After searching online, Irwin Mitchell became my obvious choice along with a recommendation from my sister who is a barrister.

"Mark Lennon was assigned to my case, who clearly set out all the risks involved and continually kept me updated with clear information. Mark was very knowledgeable in the terminology and jargon used in the utility industry. I am very happy with the professional service I received and would thoroughly recommend Mark Lennon and Irwin Mitchell."

It is important where a person suspects that their health has been compromised by work related vibratory exposure that they seek a diagnosis as soon as possible and specialist legal advice.

We will be happy to talk you through the process of making a compensation claim in plain English and answer any questions or queries you may have. Please contact us here.

Our specialist personal injury solicitors could help you to claim compensation for vibration white finger (VWF), otherwise known as hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). See our Vibration White Finger Claims page for more information.

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