Last Updated on March 12, 2025 by tanya

Steelworkers And Hearing

 

Noise Levels in a Forge and Their Impact

Forges are known to be extremely loud which can affect steelworkers and hearing. Hammering, cutting and grinding are all noisy activities. So being exposed to such high levels of noise for eight hours a day can become a risk to steelworkers’ hearing.

Employers are required to adhere to strict noise level regulations and should implement measures to protect workers’ hearing. However if your employer was negligent in preventing excessive noise exposure, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim for compensation.

 

If you believe you have a case, First Personal Injury may be able to assist you with a claim for compensation. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

 

Noise Levels in a Forge

A forge is an environment where steel and other metals are subjected to high temperatures and loud mechanical processes. This activity generates considerable noise levels.

Some of the key sources of noise include:

 

• Power hammers and drop hammers
• Grinders and cutting tools
• Welding processes
• Fans and ventilation systems
• Metal impact sounds

 

In many cases, steelworkers are exposed to extremely noise levels for several hours a day. This may significantly increase the risk of hearing damage over time.

 

Impact of Noise Exposure on Steelworkers’ Hearing

Continuous exposure to high levels of noise in a forge can lead to several forms of hearing damage. This can include :

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)

NIHL is one of the most common occupational illnesses among steelworkers. It occurs when prolonged exposure to loud noises damages the hair cells within the cochlear, leading to permanent hearing loss. The symptoms of NIHL include difficulty to understanding speech, needing to increase the volume on electronic devices and a sensation of fullness in the ears,

Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a condition where individuals experience a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in their ears. It is often a result of prolonged noise exposure. Tinnitus may significantly impact a person’s quality of life, causing sleep disturbances and concentration difficulties.

Hyperacusis

Some steelworkers may develop hyperacusis. This is a heightened sensitivity to sound that makes normal noises seem unbearably loud or painful.

 

Potential Claims For Hearing Loss

Employers in the steel industry must implement several measures to minimise workers’ exposure to harmful noise levels. This includes noise reducing barriers, soundproofing, rotating shifts to limit exposure and providing protective equipment such as noise-cancelling earmuffs.

Steelworkers who have developed hearing loss due to workplace noise exposure may be entitled to make a personal injury claim against their employer. However, you must be able to show employer negligence. This may be failing to provide adequate hearing protection, not conducting regular noise assessments or not implementing noise-reducing measures.

 

Steps to Take if You Suspect Hearing Loss

Firstly, medical evidence is essential for a claim. A hearing test is crucial to assess the extent of your hearing loss and determine if it is consistent with noise-induced harm. Also notify your employer to allow them to take corrective action.

You should also gather documents such as all your medical records, as well as noise assessments at work and PPE records. Contact a personal injury lawyer who has experience in industrial hearing loss claims who can assess your case.

Personal injury claims for industrial hearing loss must generally be filed within three years of the date you became aware of your condition. This is usually when you receive a medical diagnosis.

 

At First Personal Injury, we specialise in supporting individuals affected by workplace illnesses and accidents. We work with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

To start the claims process, contact us today by calling 0333 358 2345 or contact us online for a confidential discussion about your potential claim.