Whole Body Vibration (WBV) Syndrome refers to a range of health issues that arise from prolonged exposure to whole-body vibrations, commonly experienced in various occupations, particularly those involving heavy machinery or vehicles.
Workers who operate or work near vibrating equipment, such as construction vehicles, forklifts, or industrial machinery, are at risk of developing WBV syndrome.
The condition causes a range of symptoms, including musculoskeletal pain, nerve damage, and cardiovascular issues, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
Employers have a duty to ensure workers have the correct equipment, procedures and protections in place to minimise the risk of them developing such conditions at work. If you have suffered an injury at work through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
At Oakwood Solicitors, we understand the physical and emotional toll WBV syndrome can take on employees, and we are dedicated to providing legal support to those affected, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
Whole Body Vibration Syndrome is a condition that occurs when an individual is exposed to vibrations transmitted through the body, often due to operating vibrating equipment.
This condition can lead to a series of long-term health problems, particularly if the exposure is continuous and unaddressed.
The most common symptoms of WBV syndrome include lower back pain, neck and shoulder discomfort, tingling or numbness in the limbs, and reduced mobility. Over time, the condition can worsen, potentially leading to permanent disability.
In the workplace, WBV syndrome is typically found in industries such as construction, agriculture, transportation, and mining, where employees regularly operate machinery like construction vehicles, tractors, or drilling equipment.
The vibrations from these machines are transmitted through the feet or buttocks to the spine, which can strain the musculoskeletal system, compress nerves, and impact other bodily systems. If not properly managed or mitigated, workers are at risk of developing more severe conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders and neurological damage.
At Oakwood Solicitors, we recognise the potential dangers posed by whole-body vibrations in the workplace. If you or someone you know is suffering from WBV syndrome due to unsafe working conditions or lack of appropriate safety measures, you may be entitled to compensation.
Our expert legal team is experienced in handling cases involving occupational diseases and personal injury claims, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the appropriate compensation for your pain, suffering, and any financial losses incurred.
The way in which workers may be exposed to occupational vibration is through the use of power or pneumatic hand tools or other machinery, or by driving large transportation, construction, or agricultural vehicles.
Although vibration that is caused through the use of power hand tools and is passed on from the tool to the hand-arm system is referred to as hand-transmitted vibration, recent studies have shown that vibration can be transmitted through platforms workers are standing on, and in these circumstances the feet are the point of contact.
Another way workers can be exposed to WBV is when they are driving trucks, large earth moving vehicles, or when they use hand tools with the amplitude of the vibration being prominent enough to be passed on to other parts of the body, an example being workers who use jack hammers.
Employers have a legal duty to ensure workers are safe under The Control of Vibration Regulations 2005. The regulations lay out how employers should protect workers from vibration and issues guidance on this.
Responsibilities of the employer:
If you have been diagnosed or are experiencing symptoms of Whole Body Vibration Syndrome and believe your employer did not implement these regulations, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
Here are some Symptoms of Whole-Body Vibration, but please note that symptoms are not limited to the ones listed.
(Symptoms may be similar to those that can be experienced after a long: car, train, bus, boat journey etc.)
Over a number of years after daily exposure Whole Body Vibration Syndrome could affect the whole body, resulting in numerous health disorders. Such as circulatory, bowel, respiratory, muscular, and back disorders.
These could be alongside the effects of body posture, postural fatigue, dietary habits, and whole body vibration.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a claim?
If you feel that you have been exposed to occupational vibration or suffer from the relevant symptoms due to similar working circumstances/no protection, put in place by the workplace then you might be eligible to claim compensation.
If you feel your injuries/conditions have been caused because of your working practices and you wish to enquire about a potential claim, please contact us on 0113 200 9720.
Oakwood Solicitors Ltd specialises in industrial disease compensation claims and will work tirelessly to ensure you get the compensation you are entitled to.
Why should I use Oakwood Solicitors Ltd?
If you’ve been diagnosed with Whole Body Vibration Syndrome, you may be able to claim compensation for the damages. Oakwood Solicitors Ltd agrees to work on your industrial disease claim on a ‘no-win, no-fee’ basis.
If your claim is unsuccessful, you will not be expected to pay us a penny. If you are successful in your claim, we take a percentage of the compensation meaning that the only time we will receive money is if we have brought your claim to a fruitful conclusion.
You will have a dedicated advisor who will see your claim through from start to finish, assisting you in the event of any queries or issues you may have. If it is preferable to you, we can assign a female advisor to carry out your claim.
Your case handler will also continue to provide regular updates until the conclusion of your claim, ensuring the process is as stress-free and effortless as possible.
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