Aim: According to the current “Berufskrankheitenverordnung”
(German occupational
disease ordinance), vibration-induced white
finger (VWF) may be recognised as an occupational
disease and compensated (reduction
of earning capacity (MdE)). At present
there are no standardized guidelines for
assessment of MdE levels. The aim of the
present study was to evaluate previous
assessments by the University in Mainz and
to work out MdE recommendations for this
occupational disease.
Methods: Data collection was carried out retrospectively
using a standardized questionnaire,
which took into account medical histories
and objective test results for 317 persons
with this disorder.
Results: A MdE of 20% was most frequently
recommended, followed by a MdE of 10%.
The MdE-distribution was similar in all occupational
groups. A comparison of MdE
levels over the course of time showed an unchanged
MdE assessment in the majority of
cases. A correlation was established between
MdE levels and the frequency of symptoms
during the winter, between the vascular and
neurological classes of the Stockholm Classification
and the results of vibration sensibility
tests and thermometric tests. No statistically
significant correlation was found between
MdE levels and measured maximum hand
strength, subjectively assessed intensity and
localization of the white finger episodes,
subjectively assessed difficulties in touching
and holding small objects, periods of inability
to work as a result of fine motor disorders,
or subjectively assessed adverse effects on
work and private life.
Conclusions: The assessment of MdE levels
used in the past did not take into account
sufficiently the extent of the performance
reduction nor other aspects relevant for
the estimation of remaining job opportunities.
In order to achieve a socially fair assessment,
a standardized assessment rationale
is desirable. In addition, quality control is necessary.
