Last Updated on February 25, 2025 by tanya

Hearing Loss Among Seafarers

 

Red Flags And Making A Claim

 

Hearing loss among seafarers is a significant occupational hazard. This is due to prolonged exposure to high-decibel noise from ship engines and generators. Additionally, environmental factors such as wind and water turbulence may also play a role in gradual hearing deterioration.

Many maritime workers experience hearing loss over time and early detection is essential to prevent further damage. However, seafarers who suffer hearing loss due to employer negligence may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim.

First Personal Injury may be able to help If you have suffered from hearing loss and believe your employer failed to take reasonable steps to protect your hearing.

 

Why Hearing Loss Happens Gradually

Hearing loss among seafarers is often a slow and progressive condition rather than an immediate impairment. This is primarily due to the following factors:

 

Prolonged Noise Exposure

One of the leading causes of hearing loss for seafarers is continuous exposure to loud machinery noise. Engine rooms, propulsion systems, compressors, and ventilation units all generate high levels of sound.

According to health and safety standards, exposure to noise levels exceeding 85 decibels (dB) for prolonged periods can lead to noise-induced hearing loss. Unfortunately, many seafarers work in environments where noise often surpasses this threshold.

Cumulative Effect of Noise Damage

Unlike a sudden injury, noise-induced hearing loss develops over time as hair cells in the inner ear become damaged. These cells do not regenerate, meaning that repeated exposure to loud sounds causes irreversible harm. Therefore as more hair cells deteriorate, hearing ability declines significantly.

Lack of Immediate Symptoms

Early stages of hearing loss often go unnoticed because they do not cause pain or visible symptoms. The first signs might be difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds or struggling to understand speech in noisy environments.

Environmental and Occupational Factors

Apart from direct exposure to loud noise, environmental factors such as wind and water noise may also contribute to gradual hearing damage. Additionally, working on a ship may expose you to various other risk factors, including vibration, changes in air pressure.

 

Red Flag Symptoms of Hearing Loss

It is important that you recognise the early warning signs of hearing loss. This is so you can seek timely intervention. Here are common symptoms:

Difficulty Understanding Speech

One of the first signs of hearing loss is struggling to hear conversations, especially in noisy environments. You may notice that voices seem muffled or that you have to frequently ask people to repeat themselves.

Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)

A persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in your ears (tinnitus) is often an early indicator of noise-induced hearing damage. Tinnitus can occur intermittently or be a constant presence, interfering with your concentration and sleep.

 Increased Volume on Communication Devices

If you notice that you are frequently increases the volume on radios, televisions, or communication devices, it may be a sign that your hearing is declining.

Misinterpreting Sounds or Words

Difficulty distinguishing between similar-sounding words or misinterpreting spoken instructions can be a symptom of hearing loss. This may be hazardous in a maritime setting where clear communication is essential for safety.

Struggling to Hear High-Frequency Sounds

High-pitched sounds, such as alarms, whistles, or bird calls, are often the first to become difficult for you to hear.

Ear Pain or Fullness

Although hearing loss itself is usually painless, you may experience a sensation of pressure or fullness in the ears. This sign could indicate noise-related damage or underlying ear conditions.

 

Making a Personal Injury Claim for Negligence

 

Seafarers who suffer hearing loss due to employer negligence may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim. You must be able to demonstrate that your employer failed to take the necessary steps to protect your hearing.

You should also obtain evidence, such as medical records, audiometry test results, witness statements and records of noise exposure levels on the vessel. Injury claims must generally be filed within three years of becoming aware of the injury.

 

At First Personal Injury, we work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis, meaning you can pursue a claim with no upfront costs or financial risk. Contact our team today at 0333 358 2345 or get in touch online for a free, no-obligation consultation to find out if you have a potential claim.