Introduction
Exposure to loud noise at work can cause permanent hearing damage. If you have hearing loss, tinnitus or acoustic trauma because of your job, you may be able to claim compensation.
This page explains employer duties, the evidence you need, time limits and what compensation can include.
At a glance
- Around 17,000 workers each year suffer from work-related hearing problems caused by exposure to noise (Source: WAAC analysis of the HSE data published 12/2024)
- Employers must assess and control workplace noise and provide suitable hearing protection.
- Claims can cover hearing aids, treatment, lost earnings and the impact on daily life.
- Medical evidence and a clear noisy work history strengthen a claim.
- You usually have three years from diagnosis or date of knowledge to start a claim.
Am I eligible to claim?
You can usually claim if:
- Your hearing condition was diagnosed in the last 3 years, or you only recently realised it was work related (the date of knowledge), and
- Employer negligence caused or materially worsened your hearing problems, for example by failing to control noise or to provide or enforce suitable hearing protection, and
- Medical evidence such as an audiogram and expert report links your symptoms to workplace noise exposure.
Unsure if you qualify? Start here: Do I have a claim and The claim process.
How much compensation can I claim?
Compensation has two parts:
- General damages: for pain, suffering and loss of amenity, valued with reference to the Judicial College Guidelines for hearing loss and tinnitus.
- Special damages: financial losses such as the cost of hearing aids and replacements, batteries and maintenance, assistive technology, tinnitus therapy, travel and prescription expenses, lost earnings, future loss of earnings, and care or support.
If you have had time off work, keep payslips and fit notes. Keep invoices for hearing aids, moulds, batteries and therapy so costs can be claimed back.
Get an estimate with our tool:
What counts as industrial deafness
Industrial deafness is hearing loss caused by occupational noise exposure. It can develop gradually over years or suddenly after a very loud event. Common conditions include:
- Noise induced hearing loss reduced hearing after prolonged exposure to high noise levels.
- Tinnitus ringing, buzzing, hissing or roaring sounds, often worse in quiet rooms.
- Acoustic trauma sudden damage from an extremely loud incident such as an explosion.
For financial support alongside a claim, see Claiming PIP after a workplace injury and Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.
When is my employer legally responsible
Employers must assess noise risks, reduce exposure, provide and maintain hearing protection, and give information and training. If they fail to take reasonable steps and you are harmed, they may be liable. Helpful references:
If hearing protection was missing, poor quality or not enforced, see Inadequate PPE injury claims.
Evidence that strengthens a hearing loss claim
- Medical records and audiology results such as audiograms and tympanometry.
- Work history listing noisy tasks, machinery and dates with each employer.
- Witness statements from colleagues about noise levels and lack of protection.
- Health and safety documents such as risk assessments, noise surveys and training records if available.
- A diary describing symptoms, tinnitus patterns and the effect on daily life.
Useful guides: How to gather evidence after a work accident and The role of medical experts.
What should I do now
- See your GP or audiology promptly and ask for a referral and an audiogram. Make sure work noise is recorded.
- Report symptoms to your employer in writing and request hearing protection or a review of controls.
- Record everything including dates of noisy tasks, equipment used and any hearing protection offered.
- Check your benefits position with IIDB and what benefits you can claim after an accident.
Time limits for hearing loss claims
You usually have three years from your diagnosis or from when you first realised your hearing problems were related to work. There are exceptions for children and for people who lack capacity. Read more in How long do I have to start an injury claim.
FAQs
Can I claim if the company I worked for no longer exists
Yes. Claims can proceed against the former employer’s insurer even if the business has closed. See Claiming if your employer has ceased trading.
Do I need to have used hearing protection at work
No. If protection was not provided, was inadequate or not enforced, that may support your case.
Will a compensation claim affect my benefits
Some means tested benefits may be affected by lump sums. Read Will an injury claim affect my benefits and check official calculators on gov.uk.
Is compensation taxable
Compensation for pain and suffering is usually not taxable, but interest and some losses can be. See Will I have to pay tax on my compensation.
Next steps
You may have both benefit and legal options. A specialist solicitor can confirm eligibility, arrange an independent medical and gather evidence from your work history.
External references
- HSE: Noise at work - provides guidance on managing workplace noise to prevent hearing loss and industrial deafness.
- GOV.UK: Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit - explains eligibility and application for benefits related to industrial deafness caused by workplace noise exposure.
- GOV.UK: Compensation after an accident or injury - outlines the process for claiming compensation for hearing loss or industrial deafness from workplace incidents.
- NHS: Hearing loss - offers information on causes, symptoms, and treatment of hearing loss, including work-related industrial deafness.
Our work injury advisors will:
- Offer free, impartial advice
- Explain how No Win, No Fee works
- Recommend the right solicitor
About the author
Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.
Last reviewed September 2025 by Chris Salmon