Industrial Deafness

Industrial or occupational deafness results from exposure to excess noise. Early signs and symptoms of deafness include not being able to hear high pitched noises, muffled hearing and having trouble understanding what people say.

Tinnitus is the name given to the condition of noises 'in the head or ears'. with no external source. Tinnitus noises are described variously as buzzing, ringing, humming and whistling. The signs and symptoms of occupational deafness usually develop gradually and you may not be aware of them until they are advanced.

Workers at risk of developing occupational deafness include those employed in heavy industry, such as drilling and quarrying, metal work, stone cutting, or in the use of noisy machinery, as in printing, textiles, transportation, wood cutting and many more.

Workers are at risk of developing occupational deafness particularly using tools such as pneumatic impact tools, chainsaws and drills or explosive sources.

Industrial or occupational deafness caused by exposure to noise at work is one of the most common and potentially damaging hazards faced by workers. The government introduced The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 to protect workers from exposure to occupational noise but there are many workers who have been exposed to excess noise in the workplace prior to this time. Even prior to 2005 employers should have shown a duty of care and protect employees from the dangers of excessive noise. If you have been diagnosed as having occupational deafness caused by exposure to excess noise in the workplace, you may be able to claim for compensation against the negligent employer.