What health related risks are caused by excessive vibration?

Excessive or continuous exposure to high levels of vibration can lead to Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). The most well known form of HAVS is Vibration White Finger (VWF). The HSE estimates that there are around 300,000 people with advanced stage VWF in the UK. VWF is also one of the most commonly reported industrial diseases, and has lead to many significant claims for compensation against employers. Symptoms of HAVS might include:

• Numbness or tingling sensations in the fingers
• Reduced dexterity and pain in the fingers and joints
• Blanching (whitening) of one or more fingers

All of the above symptoms are made worse in cold and damp conditions.