Whole Body Vibration Syndrome, like Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome is an industrial illness. Whole Body Vibration Syndrome can result in back pain as a result of negligent exposure to whole body vibration and shocks from using industrial transporters such as earth moving vehicles, tractors and fork lift trucks.
Employers have a duty to reduce risks of whole body vibration as far as possible and preventative measures can include:-
• Using remote controlled conveyors to move goods or materials instead of using driven vehicles;
• Choosing the most appropriate vehicle for the job if remote controlled conveyors can’t be used;
• Considering the vehicle’s seat, suspension and tyres as well as the environment the vehicle is being used in;
• Regular vehicle maintenance and inspection;
• Designing the layout of work sites to minimise the need for transporting materials;
• Maintaining vehicle paths to reduce shocks and jolts for drivers;
• Training employees in the safe use of vehicles;
• Allowing employees time to adjust the vehicle to best fit them;
• Where outdoor work is required, providing warm and waterproof outer layers of clothing in cold and damp conditions as these conditions can make the back pain triggered by Whole Body Vibration Syndrome worse.
If you have been injured at work or have developed back pain triggered by Whole Body Vibration, please contact Elizabeth Lawrenson on 0116 212 1147 now or complete one of the on-line forms. Lawson-West solicitors make Whole Body Vibration syndrome claims on a no win no fee basis and provide an initial free consultation so you can find out if you have a claim and it won’t cost you a penny. We successfully manage cases for people from across the UK: you don't need to be based in Leicestershire.
Please also see our Hand Arm Vibration and Vibration White Finger pages for information on these and our Industrial Illness page for further information.
