Compensation claims for Havs 'on the increase in Britain'

The number of claims for compensation being made by workers who have developed hand arm vibration syndrome (Havs) is on the rise.

This is according to construction and engineering director at Zurich Carl Gebhard, who said that people working in the building, construction, civil engineering, heavy engineering, utilities and estate management sectors are the most likely to launch such legal action.

He also suggested that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that around five million workers are exposed to Havs, with two million operating in conditions where there is a clear risk of developing vibration-related problems.

Mr Gebhard went on to note that firms should take preventative steps to lower the chances of employees suffering such medical complications.

There are a number of early symptoms of Havs, including a loss of strength in the hands and a tingling and numbness in the fingers, the NHS points out on its website.