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There is some evidence to suggest that there is a link between deafness caused by work and the condition known as vibration white finger.
The first study to document this link was performed in the 1970s and sought to establish whether lumberjacks with a history of vwf had any higher than average risk of suffering occupational hearing loss.
What the study, carried out by researchers from Sweden and Finland, found was that there was a statistically significant link between the two conditions. It was postulated that this link was most likely caused by a common mechanism: "a vasoconstriction in both cochlear and digital blood vessels as a result of sympathetic nervous system activity."
Other studies have supported the link. For example, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has found that 80% of miners in the United States are exposed to a time-weighted-average (TWA) in excess of 85dB of occupational noise, with 25% exposed to a TWA in excess of 90dB; much of this noise is attributable to machinery, such as pneumatic percussion drills, which are also major Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome hazards.
Another study of miners by The Institute of Public Health Cluj-Napoca, Romania found substantial links between local vibration injury in the fingers and sympathetic vasoconstriction in the inner-ear.
Many of the studies speculate that deafness caused by work in miners may not always be attributable to excessive noise; the vibration itself may cause hearing loss by damaging the autonomic nervous system.
A no win, no fee solicitor comments, "Regardless of the cause of occupational deafness, if it can be proved that it is attributable to either excessive vibration or excessive noise in the workplace, the employer should be held liable and compensation considered payable - it is why employers pay for liability insurance."
Claim compensation for deafness caused by work
The vast majority of cases of industrial deafness are caused by prolonged exposure to excessive noise in the workplace.
Sometimes this can result in reduced ability to hear, at other times it may result in troubling conditions such as tinnitus.
The Noise at Work Act of 1969 exists to ensure that workers are protected from excessive noise and provides employers with obligations to their workers.
If you believe that your safety has been compromised and your hearing has suffered damage as a result, whether it is through using a mining drill, a compressor, a metal saw, an impact gun or through being exposed to some other source of noise, speak with one of our legal advisors so that you consider whether it might be in your interests to proceed with a claim for damages.
Here at YouClaim, the representation of our personal injury solicitors is cost free to the claimants in such cases, ensuring that there is never any risk involved with proceeding.
To find out more about how we can help you claim compensation in the event you have suffered deafness caused by work, echat, complete an online claim form or call us, on 0800 10 757 95.
