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News Desk | News Story
12th October 2010
Sheet metal worker compensated for vibration white finger
Diagnosed with Vibration White Finger
A Sheffield sheet metal worker who developed vibration white finger as a result of his employer’s negligence has received £7000 compensation.The 58-year-old developed the injury through his work grinding and hammering on metal slides for up to three hours a day. In his 26 years on the job he was never once warned about the risk of developing vibration white finger.
He is now expected to suffer from the effects of the injury for the rest of his life.
Vibration White Finger is an industrial injury
Vibration White Finger is an industrial injury that can include symptoms such as tingling and numbness in the fingertips, a cold sensation in the fingers, discolouration of the skin and aches and pains in the hands, arms and fingers.
“It’s had a huge effect on my life”, he says. “The pain’s at its worst in the cold and the dampness so I’ve had to stop the fishing and the gardening and pack up my football coaching. Even going out to watch a match in the winter is more than I can handle now.”
The GMB member sought medical attention for his injuries, but when his GP failed to recognise his symptoms he sought advice from his union.
His GMB organiser immediately recognised the symptoms as vibration white finger and the union agreed to fund a compensation claim with personal injury specialists Thompsons Solicitors.
Vibration white finger caused by overuse of vibratory tools
Thompsons gathered expert medical evidence proving his injuries were vibration white finger caused by overuse of vibratory tools. The company quickly admitted liability for the injuries and agreed to a compensation settlement.
Jeremy Hague from Thompsons Solicitors said: “The employer in this case failed in its duty to limit our client’s exposure to vibration, rotate his work or even warn him about the risks. I’m pleased he has received the compensation he deserves.”
Tim Roache, GMB Yorkshire Regional Secretary, said: “Health and safety laws exist to make sure workers aren’t injured on the job. Where employers fail to abide by these laws it’s in everybody’s interest that they are held to account. The GMB will always stand by members who’ve been injured at work and back them in their fight for justice.”
The GMB member said: “I think Jeremy at Thompsons has handled my case very well and it’s nice for someone to do something for you. I’m also very grateful for the GMB taking up my case and supporting me all the way.”
He continues to be employed at the manufacturing company.
Compensation Claim Advice
If you or someone you know has developed Vibration White Finger or any other industrial disease, telephone us now for accurate claim advice.
There are strict time limits in place to make any personal injury claim. For further information, contact us or visit our Questions Answered page.
Thompsons Solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have. If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct Thompsons Solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your injury, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you. Telephone us now on 08000 224 224 or complete one of our online personal injury compensation claim forms.
Contact us about your accident or injury
Call us for free on 08000 224 224 Call us from your mobile on 0330 123 123 0 (charged at local number and free when covered by inclusive minutes) Request a call back Text CLAIM to 82010 (standard network rates apply)
