Vibration White Finger (VWF)

Vibration White Finger is the term for secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon. This is a condition that affects the fingers, causing them to go white and numb.

What causes Vibration White Finger (VWF)?

Vibration White Finger is caused by over-exposure to vibration, and is almost always an industrial disease, as this amount of vibration is rarely found elsewhere. It is not clear exactly how the vibrations cause VWF but it is thought that the continuous and slight damage to the nerves with prolonged periods of vibration damage the blood vessels causing fingers and hands to lose their functionality and sensitivity.

What sort of tools cause Vibration White Finger (VWF)?

Any vibrating tool can contribute to Vibration White Finger, however the most common are;

  • concrete breakers,
  • pokers and compactors,
  • sanders,
  • grinders and disc cutters,
  • hammer drills,
  • chipping hammers,
  • chainsaws,
  • scabblers and needle guns.

 

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