Deafness Claims News.

The HSE Initiative To Reduce Noise-Related Deafness

A new initiative has been launched by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to encourage manufacturers to make quieter machinery and businesses to use it, in a bid to reduce noise-related deafness in the workplace. The 'Buy Quiet' campaign, led by the HSE, is about getting everyone with an interest - manufacturers, suppliers, employers, unions, insurers and consultants - looking at what they can do to reduce the risk.

170,000 people in the UK suffer noise related deafness deafness, tinnitus or other ear conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise at work. These conditions are permanent and cause unnecessary distress and frustration to sufferers.
Employers have been under a duty to protect their employees from excessive noise since 1963. This means that in many cases, those suffering from noise induced hearing loss and/or tinnitus can make a claim for compensation against the employers who did not take the proper steps required from 1963 onwards.

HSE's Sarah Haynes, HM Inspector of Health and Safety (Noise & Vibration) said:
"Noise-related ill health can have a devastating impact on workers and their families, and Buy Quiet is about exploring ideas and sharing information about what can be done to reduce the risks.

"HSE will continue to engage with industry to raise awareness of potential benefits, both health and commercial, of low noise machinery production."

We share the HSE’s view of the serious impact that noise related deafness and tinnitus can have on sufferers. We are committed to securing proper compensation for those with these conditions. We welcome any steps which can help prevent another generation of noise deafened individuals.