Noise induced hearing loss is caused by exposure to loud noise in the workplace. Noise induced hearing loss can be caused by exposure to noise over a long period of time or as a result of a one off incident. The damage caused is irreversible.
Many people who are suffering from noise induced hearing loss report that their symptoms come on gradually. Often they find it difficult to hear conversations in busy settings, for example in a busy restaurant, or can’t hear the doorbell. In many cases the hearing loss is accompanied by tinnitus which is the sound of a hissing or ringing in the ears.
If you have been exposed to noise at work and are experiencing symptoms of hearing loss and/or tinnitus you should seek medical advice immediately. If you are suffering from the condition it is important that your exposure to the loud noise is stopped so that no further damage is caused.
If you believe that you are suffering from noise induced hearing loss and/or tinnitus as a result of your work you should seek legal advice quickly. There are important time limits, which are governed by law, which govern disease litigation claims and it is important that if you feel you have a claim you pursue the claim within this time frame to ensure your claim is not statue barred.
In addition to pursuing a typical compensation claim for noise induced hearing loss and/or tinnitus the team may be able to help you apply for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.
Noise induced hearing loss is a prescribed disease covered by the scheme. If you fulfill the criteria you may be eligible to receive a weekly payment from the Government. Claims for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit can be made in addition to a claim for compensation or as a stand alone application. Successful applications can result in a payment within two to three months.