UNISON wins vibration compensation

UNISON public services union has won compensation for a member forced out of his job through injury.

Roadworker Adrian Bideau developed hand, arm vibration syndrome and carpel tunnel syndrome as a result of using vibrating tools such as breaker packs, whacker plates and saws. A bonus scheme – which has now been scrapped – encouraged excessive working with the tools and greatly increased the risks.

Greg Grant, UNISON regional secretary, said: “Employers have a duty of care to their staff but Norfolk City Council encouraged staff to work more hazardously, because of the bonus scheme they operated.”