In an ideal world all work equipment would be designed and manufactured to avoid the risk of deafness and other hearing damage and would not interfere with normal conversation. However, in some cases this is simply impossible and so measures have been put in place to minimise the danger for workers and anyone who has to come into contact with this kind of noisy environment.
The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 require suppliers to minimise the noise at source. Where this is not possible it is imperative that protective measures are taken such as screening the source of noise, or enclosing it so that the sound is reduced. If, in turn, these steps are not suitable, then information and training must be provided so that the equipment can be used without risk from noise; such as providing appropriate hearing protection.
Manufacturers of noisy equipment have a duty to provide information about the residual noise risk and proper instruction for the machinery to be used safely. In some cases machines might give a misleadingly low indication within a standard noise test and so manufacturers have a responsibility to provide customers with information regarding this risk.
In some cases the sound power level for some types of outdoor equipment such as lawn mowers, road breakers etc is determined to standards outside the machinery safety standard because they must also comply with environmental legislation governing noise nuisance.
What if your hearing has been damaged through your work?
If you have developed hearing problems and you think it is due to your employment, it could be that you are entitled to make a claim for compensation. Employers have a duty to care for their employees’ welfare and that includes providing suitable training and equipment to avoid hearing damage. Our solicitors have year of experience in handling these kinds of cases and will swiftly be able to tell you if you are eligible to make a claim, and if so, how much that could be worth. Contact us today and see if we can help to get you the compensation that you deserve.