Miners receive £½bn payout for vibration injuries

Brian Wilson, Minister for Energy, has announced today that the Government is close to paying over half a billion pounds to miners for VWF (vibration white finger) injuries.

The payment is the world's biggest compensation scheme for industrial disease, won by the pit deputies' union NACODS in a resounding High Court victory three years ago. Lawyers representing ex-miners and their families have criticised lack of progress in paying compensation and Mr Wilson says he recognises frustrations caused by delays.

VWF refers to injury to the hands and lower arms that arise out of occupational exposure to vibration. Employers can reduce the risks for workers by choosing equipment that limits vibration, and where possible, limiting the time workers are exposed.

In a visit to a VWF testing centre, Mr Wilson said:  "Progress is being made. Over £480 million has been paid to claimants suffering from VWF. But I am determined that no stone shall be left unturned to get money faster into the pockets of these men who have given their health to provide this nation with fuel."

The Workplacelaw Network reported over a year ago that ex-miners for British Coal were being paid £1m a day in compensation for lung disease and VWF.

The latest statistics can be found at the DTI website.
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