How To Claim For Noise Induced Hearing Loss

HOW TO CLAIM FOR NOISE INDUCED HEARING LOSS INFOGRAPHIC Noise related hearing loss is caused due to over exposure of excessive noise in the workplace or at leisure. This can include industrial deafness caused by factory or construction site work. By 2031 it is predicted there will be 14.5 MILLION PEOPLE with hearing loss in the UK. WHAT CAUSES NOISE INDUCED HEARING LOSS A noisy work environment causes industrial deafness either by a sudden, damaging noise or prolonged exposure to harmful noise levels. More high-risk occupations include: Energy and water supply Those who operate noisy machinery Construction Road The military maintenance > Long-term exposure to 80dB of noise can damage your hearing >A drill can make 100-110 dB of noise >A quiet office generates 40-50 dB of noise THE LAW The Control of Noise at Work Regulations (2005) aim to protect employees from exposure to noise levels in excess of 85 decibels. In such circumstances, employers are legally obliged to provide ear defenders or earplugs. SIGNS OF INDUSTRIAL DEAFNESS AND NOISE INDUCED HEARING LOSS Tinnitus / ringing in Muffled hearing Loss of high-pitched Acoustic trauma - sounds which causes irreversible damage the ears to the eardrum or inner ear 4 STEPS FOR COMPENSATION REGARDING YOUR NOISE INDUCED HEARING LOSS Identify the problem First you need to establish whether you are suffering a hearing loss and if so, the likely cause. Did you or do you still work in a noisy environment? If your work environment placed you in a setting with noise in excess of 85 dB and no ear protection was issued, you may be entitled Act quickly A three-year time limit applies in the majority of cases, in which time a hearing claim needs to be lodged. The time limit begins from the moment you become aware of your hearing loss or from the date the 'incident' at work caused acoustic shock. This time limit may be waivered in exceptional circumstances only. To make the claim you don't need to still be employed by the company. Neither are you limited to making a claim for just one employer. to claim. Hire a specialist personal injuries lawyer They will gather the relevant evidence required for your claim and guide you through the legal procedure. Go for an official hearing test Use a qualified audiologist who will identify the extent of the problem and the likely cause. Infographic by www.HearingDirect.com the world's largest online hearing experts Sources: http://www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/your-hearing/about deafness-and-hearing-loss /statistics.aspx http://hearinghealthfoundation.org/85 http://www.hse.gov.uk/noise/employers.htm#sthash.ddG5n8Cs.dpuf Hearing Direct.com The world's largest online hearing experts