Personal injury advice from
Thompsons Solicitors
Groundskeeper Receives Compensation for Vibration White Finger
24th January 2011
In a recent industrial disease case, our expert lawyers acted on behalf of a groundskeeper who developed vibration white finger as a result of his working conditions.
Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome
Hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), also commonly known as vibration white finger, is a condition affecting the circulation of the fingers and hands. It is caused by exposure to excessive vibration, usually through the use of power tools or machinery.
Our client was employed by a college and used equipment including strimmers, mowers and hedge trimmers on a regular basis in order to maintain the grounds. On occasion, he would also use other vibrating tools such as disc cutters and breakers for specific jobs.
He developed symptoms including tingling, aching and whiteness in the ends of his fingers and was diagnosed with vibration white finger. This affects the work that he is able to do, as work with vibrating equipment is no longer suitable, and also things he would ordinarily do at home, such as housework and gardening.
Industrial Disease Claim
The claimant appointed our specialist personal injury lawyers to act on his behalf in a claim against his employer.
We put forward information that the equipment at the college was not regularly maintained or inspected and our client was not warned about the risks of using vibration equipment or given health and safety instruction on their use. His employer also failed to provide personal protective equipment and his levels of use of the equipment were not monitored.
Initially the defendant refused to negotiate a suitable settlement of compensation and it was necessary for us to begin court proceedings. We were able to negotiate an appropriate settlement before the case went to trial however. After rejecting an initial lower offer the client’s employer put forward we secured £30,000 on his behalf which took into account his condition and also his financial expenses and loss of earnings.
Personal Injury Claim Advice
If you suffer a work related personal injury or illness, you may be entitled to pursue an injury claim.
At The Legal Line, our lawyers have a wealth of experience in recovering compensation for the victims of accidents at work and industrial illnesses and we can provide you with expert advice on a cost-free basis. Contact The Legal Line on 0800 0328511, or by completing a claim enquiry form online, to find out if we can help you.
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