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News Desk | News Story
7th December 2009
The Unite member from Wolverhampton was diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) after he found he was unable to use his hands properly.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition which leads to numbness and muscle weakness. It can be caused by using vibrating tools and although the symptoms are permanent they can be reduced by surgery.
The 56-year-old was first diagnosed with HAVS symptoms in 2004 during a routine examination by the nurse while working for Caparo Modular Systems Ltd.
The firm, based in Willenhall, makes bonnets, tailgates and doors for cars.
Although he was showing signs that he had the condition, he wasn’t removed from the job and continued in the same role for another 18 months. Over that time his condition worsened so much that he was unable to do his job and was eventually moved into a different department where he no longer used vibrating tools.
He was later made redundant as part of cutbacks in his new department. Unfortunately he has been unable to find alternative work.
Following the diagnosis he contacted his union Unite which instructed Thompsons Solicitors to pursue a claim for compensation. Caparo Modular Systems admitted breach of duty and settled the claim out of court.
He said: “I first noticed problems with my hands in 2004, but I was allowed to continue working in the same department doing the same job despite my problems. Over the next 18 months my condition got worse, but I wasn’t moved until it became really serious.
“I’ve now had surgery on my hands, which has helped, but the condition restricts what I can do especially during the winter. When the weather is cold my hands go numb. It's been difficult finding a job because I can no longer work in the job I have always done and been trained to do.”
Eric McDonald from Unite said: “HAVS and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can have a devastating impact on workers trained to use vibrating tools. As this member has discovered, finding employment when you are suffering from this condition can be extremely difficult.”
David Fisher from Thompsons Solicitors added: “Courts consider that since 1975 employers should have known the risk workers face when using vibrating tools on a regular basis. They expect precautions to be taken. Our client paid with his livelihood because the employer failed to keep a closer eye on his condition.”
If you or someone you know has developed Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome or any other industrial disease, telephone us now for accurate claim advice.
There are strict time limits in place to make any personal injury claim. For further information, contact us or visit our Questions Answered page.
Thompsons Solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have. If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct Thompsons Solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your injury, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you. Telephone us now on 08000 224 224 or complete one of our online personal injury compensation claim forms.