£20,000 Damages for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

A man who used vibrating tools extensively in his work has secured compensation from his employer after he developed carpal tunnel syndrome.

The man worked as a plater and fabrication fitter. He had initially been a self-employed contractor but subsequently became a full-time employee, after which he increasingly used vibrating tools such as grinders and drills.

Within months, he began experiencing numbness and tingling in his hands. He was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome and underwent decompression surgery on his left wrist, but continued to experience numbness and tingling in his thumb.

He brought a claim against his employer, which initially denied liability on the basis that his condition had not been caused by use of vibrating tools. It was also argued that his claim had been brought too late. After court proceedings were commenced, however, his employer made an offer of £20,000 in compensation, which he accepted.