Vibration White Finger
Commonly referred to as “vibration white finger”, uncontrolled exposure to vibrating equipment over time, will cause nerve damage in the fingers. Eventually, nerve endings die, blood circulation to the finger tips stops, and you end up with white fingers. The initial symptoms involve a tingling sensation but leads onto loss of feeling in the fingers, inability to grip/grasp objects and a lack of dexterity. It can also affect muscles, bones and joints. Once the damage is caused, it is irreversible and is not treatable. It is therefore important that both employers and employees take HAVS very seriously.
A recent court case highlighted the consequences for the employer where they failed to monitor staff exposure to vibrations. Plymouth Magistrates’ Court heard how three employees of Celtic Rock Services Ltd (CRSL) had developed and reported symptoms of HAVS, but no action was taken. They were fined £36,667, but interestingly, a director of the company also pleaded guilty.
Their employees used rock drills and jackhammers in carrying out rock stabilisation work. Although the first HAVS symptoms were reported as far back as 2000, the company only recognised/accepted these in 2016, and then instigated health surveillance.
An investigation by HSE found that the company had not informed the employees about the risks of HAVS and their symptoms, it did not have a system to monitor exposure to vibration, their risk assessments did not identify the actual exposure to vibration, and they had been using old vibration data. Furthermore, they only introduced health surveillance in 2016. When symptoms were reported, the company had failed to take appropriate action.
CRSL pleaded guilty to a charge under Sec 2(1) of the HSAWA 74 under which they breached the duty to ensure the health, safety and welfare of their employees at work. They were fined £36,667 and ordered to pay costs of £3,500. Additionally, a director also pleaded guilty of breaching Sec 37 of HSAWA 74 under which a director, secretary manager or any other senior manager caused or contributed to the injury by essentially their negligence, consent, ignorance or otherwise turning a blind eye. This highlights the increasing trend of prosecutions against individuals alongside the company.
Hand arm vibration syndrome prevention
So, what can you do to protect yourself?
- If you are using vibrating tools and equipment, obtain the latest vibration data
- Draw up a robust and complete HAVS policy and risk assessment.
- Introduce a regime for servicing and maintenance of tools. Set up a mechanism under which staff can report defective tools/equipment
- Ensure that the tools are correctly labelled with the vibration information.
- Consult staff about the vibration data, what that information means, highlight the importance of compliance and consequences of exceeding the vibration limits.
- Conduct regular toolbox talks on the subject, keeping records of attendees.
- You can consider buying/using vibration monitoring devices. There are various systems on the market, which measure the level of vibrations. They can deliver immediate alerts and are accompanied by software so you can monitor your staff.
- The HSE have launched a “HAVS Calculator” to help with calculating exposure to allow controls to be applied appropriately.
At Quest, we can offer you the advice and guidance you need so you don’t fall foul of the law. Additionally, our experts can draft plans and policies for your business to ensure you are compliant and remain in control. Remember, HAVS can ruin lives and families, as well as the financial penalties. It is important that you are in control. For more information, contact us today.
