Since the primary cause of hand arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is when the tissue in your hands and arms sustains damage from the rapid vibration of an external force, the main culprits in causing the condition are power tools. And since there are many, many jobs that require the use of such tools, the number of workers who are at risk of being affected is similarly vast.
Many tradesmen are in danger of developing HAVS because of the sheer amount of time spent using such tools. The construction, engineering, motor vehicle manufacturing, shipbuilding, heavy steel fabrication, and forestry industries all run a major risk if the workers do not practise the necessary health and safety measures.
You could be at risk of developing hand arm vibration syndrome if you regularly use any of the following hand held vibrating tools:
- Road breakers
- Demolition hammers
- Hammers drills/combi hammers
- Needle scalers
- Angle grinders
- Jigger picks
- Chipping hammers
- Pneumatic hammers
- Chainsaws
- Brush cutters
- Sanders
- Impact wrenches
- Pneumatic ratchets
- Pneumatic hand drills
- Masonry drills
- Jack hammers
- Plate compactors (Wacker)
- Stone/road cutting floor saws
- Vibrating rollers
- Mowers
- Strimmers/Blowers
- Rotovators
Fair compensation for HAVS victims and their families
The essential steps must always be taken to protect staff from work-related injuries and diseases, including hand arm vibration syndrome. Failure of an employer to take these steps means that they can be held at least partly accountable for the resulting ailments suffered by their workforce.
So, if you work in any profession that makes regular use of the above tools and have developed HAVS as a result, then you could be entitled to claim compensation.
With years of experience in handling personal injury claims for individuals, as well as a determination to achieve just outcomes for our clients, the solicitors at Thompsons can offer you straightforward, honest advice and guidance as you move forward with your claim. Our lawyers approach each case with sensitivity and care, aiming to help put your mind at ease as they try to settle the claim as efficiently as possible.
If you are still unsure about whether to make a compensation claim for your hand arm vibration syndrome, then you can receive an initial free consultation over the phone, where one of our legal experts will provide you with no-obligation advice on whether or not you will be able to make an effective claim and if litigation is the right path for you to take. Contact us today by calling 0800 0891331, or click here to fill out our contact form.