Asons Solicitors Secures £6,500 In Noise-Induced Hearing Loss For Silver Manufacturing Worker

A former silversmith has been compensated after being diagnosed with noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). The permanent condition is allegedly due to excessive noise exposure at his workplace in Sheffield.

Bolton, UK (PRWEB UK)

According to the letter of claim, the worker, now aged 64, was employed as a machine operator in the Sheffield-based firm from 1966 to 1986. During this time, he was exposed to excessive noise levels, produced by machinery used for filling, joining, soldering and brazing the silver.

The Asons’ client confirmed that there were fifty different types of hammers, and at least twelve people in his department using the tools constantly. He worked shifts of eight hour days, five days per week plus regular overtime.

According to the letter of claim, the level of noise within the factory was so high, that in order to communicate with other employees, the Asons’ client was left with no alternative than to shout. It is alleged, that the noise continued throughout lunch breaks, and that the machinery could be heard in the canteen area.

According to the letter of claim, it is alleged that the silver manufacturing firm did not make provisions for suitable and efficient hearing protection. Moreover, the Company allegedly failed to conduct any noise or risk assessments to determine the noise levels employees were being exposed to. Any risk or noise assessment would have identified the risk of injury.

Subsequently, hearing protection became available in the form of or ear plugs. The client advised that the use of the hearing protection was not enforced, and therefore a safe system of work was not implemented. Had the ear plugs been used, they would have protected him from the risk of occupational deafness.

Commenting on the case, Asons Solicitor’s Executive, Thomas Fairclough stated that:

“It is alleged that our client spent twenty years working in an extremely loud environment, where hearing safety equipment was not provided. Our client’s employer also failed to carry out employee hearing tests, create, retain or review occupational health records, and offer advice about the risk of injury.

“He was not made aware of the risks of noise exposure, and was unaware of the injury that could be caused. Furthermore, he was not provided with any information, training or instruction.”

Fortunately, cases of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), or industrial deafness, have slowly been decreasing over the past three years. Despite the improvements made, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) statistics between 2009/10 and 2011/12 suggest that around 19,000 industrial deafness cases were reported, that were either caused, or made worse, by high levels of noise at work. (1)

Asons Solicitors suggest that if someone would like to learn more about the hearing loss claim process, or if they would like to better understand occupational hearing loss, that information is available at http://www.asons.co.uk, or via an expert helpline on 01204 521 133

(1) HSE Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) In Great Britain hse.gov.uk/statistics/causdis/deafness/ - HSE July 2013

About Asons Solicitors:
Asons Solicitors is a Bolton-based law practice that specialises in personal injury and industrial disease claims. Founded by brothers Imran Akram and Kamran Akram, Asons Solicitors has developed to become a young and dynamic law firm that delivers practical solutions to clients in times of difficulty. Their continued focus on their staff has seen them awarded with the Investors in People “Gold Award”; which is reflected in the professional and personable approach they take in working with clients. They strive to grow and to develop, and their supportiveness and attention to detail ensures that their clients use them time and again.