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30th January 2009
Machine fitter compensated for loss of hearing
Occupational Deafness
A Unite member who was exposed to dangerous levels of noise in the workplace has been compensated following help from Thompsons Solicitors.The 50-year-old from Worksop has received £5,500 in damages after suffering occupational deafness.
His hearing became damaged when working for Dormer Tools, as a machine fitter for over 20 years.
The company made drills for a number of different industries and the client worked in both its Sheffield and Worksop premises.
The factory floor was a noisy environment but he was never given instruction or advice on the dangers of excessive noise.
Hearing damaged by Noise
He was advised to pursue compensation after being examined by an occupational health professional who told him his hearing had been damaged by noise.
He contacted his union, Unite, which instructed its lawyers Thompsons Solicitors.
Dormer Tools admitted liability and a settlement was agreed out of court.
The client said: “I worked in an environment which was constantly noisy. We were never warned that we might become deaf as a result of our work. I should not have been put in a situation where my health could suffer.
“I’m only 50 but already I find it difficult to hear when there is background noise. By claiming compensation I wanted to warn others to demand adequate protection for their ears when working in a noisy environment.”
Right to claim compensation
Adrian Axtell, Unite’s regional secretary for the East Midlands said: “Many of our members have been negligently exposed to excessive levels of noise in the workplace by their employers, particularly those working on the highways or in manufacturing. Sadly even with the knowledge and the safety equipment available it continues today.
“It is only right that those deafened through their employer’s negligence should be compensated for the long term damage to their hearing.”
Carol Wild from Thompsons Solicitors added: “Loss of hearing is often seen as a hazard of the job and many employees do not think of claiming compensation. However, employers have a duty of care to ensure their employees are safeguarded against all dangers at work - including excessive noise levels.
“Not providing adequate protection against excess noise is negligent and workers affected have a right to claim compensation.”
Making a Personal Injury Compensation Claim for Industrial Deafness
If you or someone you know has developed occupational deafness or any other industrial illness, telephone us now for accurate claim advice.
There are strict time limits in place to make any injury claim, including claims for occupational deafness. For further information, contact us or visit our Questions Answered page.
Thompsons Solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim for occupational deafness in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have. If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct Thompsons Solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your industrial deafness, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you. Telephone us now on 08000 224 224 or complete one of our online personal injury compensation claim forms.
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