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An international aerospace company from Hampshire has been fined £50,000 and ordered to pay costs of £2,500 after it admitted to three charges under the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005.

Vector Aerospace International Ltd was prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive after it investigated reports that employees at the company had been diagnosed with Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome; also know as HAVS.

Portsmouth Magistrates Court heard how the company which employs nearly 3,000 workers globally; 1,100 of them at the Gosport site, had performed a survey of the tools being used by their employees and decided that no control measures were needed. Despite a later review of the risk assessment, no error was identified and so the risks of vibration-related injury to between 400 and 450 workers using around 1,600 power tools were never controlled.

During the investigation staff from the HSE also found that in many cases workers using vibrating tools were never provided with any information or training regarding the safe use of such devices, and as a result they were exposed to dangerous levels of vibration; far higher than the legal limits that are imposed.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE Inspector Alec Ryan said: Vector Aerospace had the resources to protect its employees from the well-known effects of excessive exposure to vibration but failed to do so over a significant number of years. As a result, 13 employees developed symptoms of HAVS which can affect all aspects of their lives. HSE’s intervention was as a result of the company bringing in health surveillance for the first time. Although this identified these cases, it came too late for these workers. The company failed to assess the risks and implement the necessary controls. Employers have a duty to provide effective measures to ensure the health of their staff is not seriously or permanently harmed by the work they are asked to do.”

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome can result in circulation problems and significant pain to those who suffer from it. It can reduce the ability to grip small things or even to pick up small objects or fasten buttons. If you or someone you care for suffers from any kind of vibration-related pain, it is quite likely that you will be able to make a claim for compensation. Our solicitors are highly trained in this area of the law and will swiftly be able to tell you if you have a claim, and if so, how much that claim could be worth. Contact us today to find out how we can help you get the compensation that you deserve.