Loss of hearing in the work place caused by sudden or prolonged exposure to excessive noise levels (sometimes termed occupational deafness), often affects servicemen and women who have spent time in conflict zones whilst on their tours of duty in the armed forces.
Long-term exposure to excessive noise levels can lead to a number of hearing impairments, including:
- Ringing in ears, also known as tinnitus
- Partial deafness in one or both ears
- Reduced hearing ability
- Sensitivity to loud noises
- Total deafness
If you have suffered an accident whilst serving in the armed forces which caused hearing impairment or occupational deafness, you may be eligible to make a claim for compensation. You may also be entitled to a war pension.
Occupational Deafness - Your employer's responsibilities to safe working practices
Like any other employer, the MoD has a duty to ensure the health and safety of its employees in the Armed Forces. They must guarantee that suitable protective equipment be made available to prevent accidents causing hearing impairment or occupational deafness to its employees.
Increased and often excessive noise levels may be an inevitable consequence of working in the Armed Forces because of close proximity to gun fire, explosives, tank movements and other operations on the battlefield. If adequate protective equipment is not provided, this is likely to lead to significant hearing impairment, even deafness.
If you've been involved in an accident which has caused you to suffer hearing impairment or deafness, and you believe your employer has been negligent, you may be able to claim for compensation against the MoD.
How can I make a claim for compensation?
Contact Legal Advice Helpline for information on how to claim compensation for accidents causing impaired hearing or occupational deafness whilst serving in the Armed Forces.
All of our solicitors operate on a no win, no fee basis which means that you have nothing to pay at any time.
Call our helplinenow on 0800 612 3042 for immediate assistance.