Exposure to loud noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss in Northern Ireland. This condition can develop gradually over time or suddenly due to intense noise exposure. Understanding the risks and taking steps to protect your hearing is crucial for long-term health.
The Dangers Of Loud Noise
Hearing loss can occur when there’s a problem with any component of the auditory system. This includes the outer ear, middle ear, inner ear, as well as the nerves that transmit sound signals to the brain. This can result in a range of hearing difficulties and can be caused by many different factors like age, exposure to loud noises, as well as injury. There’s been extensive research done to help people understand noise-induced hearing loss. Here are some important points worth noting:
- Nearly 1 in 8 people in the UK suffer from tinnitus, which is a ringing or buzzing sound that’s often caused by exposure to loud noise.
- Research suggests that continued exposure to noise above 85dB can, over time, cause hearing loss. Even short exposures to very loud noise can cause immediate harm.
- Common sources of hazardous noise include construction sites, machinery, nightclubs and concerts. Listening to music through earbuds at high volumes also carries risk.
- Early warning signs of hearing damage include difficulty hearing and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). However, these symptoms often don’t typically appear until damage has already been done.
- In order to avoid hearing loss, it’s important to take preventative measures including wearing earplugs while in loud environments. Additionally, it’s important to keep volume levels low and also take breaks from noisy environments.
Hearing loss can significantly impact your life. It’s important to be aware of your environment and take steps to protect your hearing.
The Legacy Of Negligent Employers In Northern Ireland
In the past, many employers in Northern Ireland failed to provide adequate hearing protection in noisy workplaces. For decades, proper precautions were not taken. Lax safety standards and lack of regulatory oversight resulted in many innocent people developing noise-induced hearing loss later in life.
One example of this is the case of factory workers who were exposed to high levels of noise for extended periods of time. Our solicitors have helped individuals who worked in places like Adria, a manufacturer of hosiery with factories in Derry/Londonderry, Strabane, and Newry. Many people who worked there now suffer from hearing loss as a result of their loud working conditions. Many housands of people may have been affected by these and other factories across Northern Ireland.
Even brief exposures can be damaging. In most cases, employers provided little or no hearing protection. Workers were simply expected to tolerate the hazardous conditions. We believe this is simply unacceptable.
The impacts often didn’t emerge until years or decades later, as hearing loss from noise exposure is a cumulative process. Only when debilitating hearing loss, tinnitus and other issues developed in retirement did many individuals realise their working conditions caused permanent damage. The negligent lack of noise control has left a lasting mark on generations in Northern Ireland.
How We Can Help With Your Hearing Loss Claim?
At Paschal O’Hare Solicitors, we have over 50 years of experience assisting people with hearing loss claims in Northern Ireland. Our compassionate team will evaluate your situation and help determine if you have grounds for compensation.
We understand the challenges hearing loss creates in your daily life. We also know that the claims process may feel confusing and intimidating. Our solicitors will handle the entire claims process and keep you informed about your progress every step of the way.
Even if your employer no longer exists, we can help. We have successfully won compensation from insurers that represented these companies. Don’t assume a hearing loss claim isn’t possible just because you worked somewhere a long time ago – get in touch for a free consultation.
At Paschal O’Hare Solicitors, your hearing and comfort matter to us. Over the decades, we have built a reputation for securing exceptional results and providing personalised support. Please reach out to our team if you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss caused by a negligent employer. Our solicitors are here to help you get the justice you deserve.
