Written by Rick Gregory, Editorial Lead · Legal information checked in collaboration with Edward & Amaury Solicitors (SRA 800525) · September 2026 · ~4 min read
WorkClaim UK is a trading name of Edward and Amaury Limited (Edward & Amaury Solicitors), authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA 800525).
Quick Summary
- Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), including vibration white finger, is caused by regular use of vibrating hand-held tools
- The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 set an exposure action value of 2.5 m/s² A(8) and an exposure limit value of 5 m/s² A(8) for hand-arm vibration
- Employers must assess the risk, control exposure, give training and provide health surveillance where needed
- A claim is brought in negligence, and time limits usually run from when you knew the condition was work-related
- This guide covers England and Wales
What is HAVS?
According to the Health and Safety Executive, HAVS is a condition caused by using vibrating hand-held or hand-guided tools over time. Typical symptoms are tingling or numbness in the fingers, loss of feeling, fingers turning white and painful when cold, and reduced grip strength. It can be permanent. Chainsaws, grinders, breakers, hammer drills and sanders are common causes, so it is seen in construction, forestry, engineering and utilities work.
What do the regulations say?
The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005 set daily exposure values for hand-arm vibration, averaged over eight hours:
- Exposure action value: 2.5 m/s² A(8), the level at which employers must take action to control exposure
- Exposure limit value: 5 m/s² A(8), the level that must not be exceeded
Employers must assess the risks, reduce exposure to as low as reasonably practicable, provide information and training, and provide health surveillance where there is a risk. Choosing low-vibration tools and limiting time on tools are typical controls.
What if the employer did not manage the risk?
If the employer failed to assess or control vibration and you developed HAVS as a result, you may have a claim in negligence. The regulations are used as evidence of what a reasonably careful employer should have done. Strong evidence often includes your work history, tools used and how long for, any health surveillance records and a medical diagnosis.
How long do I have?
Because HAVS develops gradually, the three-year limit generally starts from the date you knew, or should have known, that the condition was significant and caused by work. Read our time limits guide, and see our page on hand and finger injury claims for related injuries.
Is there a state benefit?
Vibration white finger is a prescribed disease for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit, subject to conditions. See our IIDB guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim if my former employer has closed?
Possibly, if their insurer can be traced. See our guide to employers that have closed or had no insurance.
Can HAVS be treated?
It can sometimes be managed, and reducing further exposure is important. A GP or occupational health doctor can advise.
Does my employer have to test me?
Where risk assessment shows a risk to health, the regulations require health surveillance.
What symptoms can hand arm vibration syndrome cause?
Symptoms can include tingling, numbness, loss of grip and fingers changing colour in cold conditions. See a GP promptly if you notice them, and record the tools and work that exposed you to vibration.
How long do I have to make a HAVS claim?
The usual personal-injury limit is three years, but the date can depend on when you first knew your condition might be linked to work. Get advice early rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.
Symptoms in your hands from vibrating tools?
A specialist solicitor can look at your work history and tools to see whether a claim may be possible.
Or call 01228 272395 to speak to Edward & Amaury Solicitors (SRA number: 800525). No upfront cost and nothing to pay if your claim does not succeed.