Machine Operator Receives Payout for Hearing Loss

A former machine operator whose hearing was damaged by exposure to excessive workplace noise over a period of time working for several different employers has won almost £1,400 in compensation.

Mr Hall worked as a latex machine operator in the carpet industry for five years. During that time he was exposed to high levels of noise, not just from his own machine but also from the other machines used in the carpet weaving process and from air conditioning systems.

At no time was he provided with hearing protection. He was also not warned about the potential dangers posed by exposure to excessive noise levels.

Eventually, Mr Hall developed mild noise-induced hearing loss and noise-related tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears which often results from exposure to loud noise.

Mr Hall commenced a claim for compensation. Although some of his former employers had ceased trading and their insurers could not be identified, his claim was successful in respect of part of the period of exposure and he won £1,379.70 in an out-of-court settlement.

For information and advice on noise at work, see the Health and Safety Executive website.

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