20 July 2004 - Hand arm vibration syndrome - key changes
Minister for Work Jane Kennedy today announced an important change to the prescription of Prescribed Disease A11 (PD A11), commonly known as Vibration White Finger.
The Industrial Injuries Advisory Council conducted a review into Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) and recommended widening the terms of prescription of the disease to include severe sensorineural symptoms. Previously, only those with vascular symptoms (i.e. Vibration White Finger) were able to claim Industrial Injury Disablement Benefit.
The Department for Work and Pensions agreed to the recommendations and is now working on plans to put the recommendations into practice. This will include liaison with those representing people who may be affected by the change.
Ms Kennedy said: “The recommendations bring Prescribed Disease A11 up to date with the medical science on this condition, and we will look to implement these changes in the most cost effective manner.”
Notes for editors
- PD A11 is caused by the prolonged use of hand held high frequency vibrating or percussive tools.
- Currently, PD A11 covers only the vascular effects (blanching) of vibration, not the sensorineural effects (altered sensation in the fingers such as tingling and numbness).
- The revised prescription for PD A11 will take account of severe sensorineural symptoms, whether or not the vascular symptoms are present.
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