Will the UK smoking ban have a bearing on VWF cases?

As of 1st July 2007 it became illegal for smokers to enjoy a puff inside the workplace in England. It is predicted that this will prompt a reduction in the incidence of industrial illnesses which can be triggered by smoking, such as Vibration White Finger (VWF).

The most common cause of VWF is the continuous use of vibrating tools or machinery. The repetitive vibrations can affect the nerves, constrict the blood vessels and restrict blood flow to the hands and fingers. This can result in a tingling sensation as well as pain in the hands and fingers and may eventually lead to a loss of the fingers.

Some factors can aggravate this work-related illness further such as working in cold conditions, stress and smoking. The chemicals found in tobacco can cause the small blood vessels to narrow and restrict blood flow even further, therefore escalating the symptoms of VWF.

One reason why the smoking ban was gradually introduced in the UK was to reduce workers', especially those that work in pubs, clubs and bars, exposure to smoky conditions that can lead to personal injury and illness. There are ongoing debates about whether second-hand smoke causes lung cancer and aggravates asthma but those with VWF may also be positively affected by the change in the law.

It is thought that the ban will encourage many smokers to bin their cigarettes and lighters and endure healthy living. If this is the case then road workers, tree surgeons and others prone to VWF may give up the habit and, in so doing, improve their chances of not suffering the industrial disease to such extremes.

It remains to be seen how the Government's bid to make the UK's workplaces smoke-free will improve the overall health of our workforces.

Make a VWF compensation claim through YouClaim today
YouClaim can help those that have sustained a work-place injury, such as VWF, through no fault of their own to get personal injury compensation from their employer.

We are associated with a panel of expert personal injury solicitors who have helped thousands of people to get the compensation they deserve on a no win, no fee basis without it costing them a penny.

The solicitor that we assign to you will talk you through each stage of the claims process and will explain anything that you are unsure of in plain English. Making a claim through us couldn't be less hassle.

You can claim for pain, distress, lost earnings, medical expenses and more and, providing you win your case, you will receive a cheque within a matter of weeks for the full amount of compensation; we won't make any deductions.

So what are you waiting for? Get the compensation that you are entitled to. Contact us for a call back request at the time that's most convenient for you, day or night, or give us a call direct right now. You can speak to an experienced claims advisor and start the ball rolling for your VWF claim today.