Vibration White Finger (VWF) – which is also sometimes known as hand-arm vibration syndrome or the rather less pleasant dead finger – refers to a condition triggered by continual use of vibrating handheld machinery or tools. A form of Raynaud’s syndrome, it is characterised by tingling and/or numb fingers, whiteness and in severe cases loss of manual dexterity and grip strength due to nervous and muscular pain. The symptoms were first noted all the way back in 1911, but it wasn’t until a study in 1918 that contemporary doctors realised that it was vibrating hand tools that caused them. Today, employers must ensure that their workers are properly guarded against risk of VWF; indeed, VWF claims can be made if they are found to have not put sufficient safety measures in place. The best way to avoid VWF is to ensure the usage of well designed and maintained tools as well as the correct safety equipment.