cnc machinist deafness claim

CNC Machinist Claim: Computer Numerical Control Metal Cutting Machine Worker Injury

Find out how to claim compensation for hearing problems caused by excessive CNC machine noise used to cut metals, such as steel and cast iron

We explain how to claim compensation if you suffer injury from operating machines used to cut and engineer metal parts, such as the computer numerical control / CNC machine.

In this Q&A – we specifically consider noise induced hearing loss and tinnitus caused by metal cutting machines in the automotive, power, aerospace and manufacturing industries. Typical metals being cut include hard metals, such as steel and cast iron.

Table of Contents

CNC Machinist Claim DESCRIPTION

I worked from for 21 years for a company in the Midlands as a CNC machinist cutting steels and cast irons on high powered lathes and I was always required to work as fast as possible.

No hearing protection PPE was ever provided despite the noise levels being very loud. So loud that I could not hear what a work colleague was saying unless the lathe was turned off.

I worked 12 hour shifts most days of the week. Only rarely did I have a weekend off.

I often complained about the noise levels being too loud. Although hearing defenders were promised – they were never provided. Since I feared losing my job I did not push too much.

Last year I started with a new employer who take health and safety very seriously. Occupational health gave me a hearing test, showing both my ears had reduced hearing. My right ear was worse than my left. I was told I should see my GP – so I arranged an appointment and have since been to see a consultant at hospital who did further tests. It was established from the hearing test audiogram that I had hearing damage from noise exposure.

I also have a continual buzzing sound in my right ear (worse when the environment is quite, such as at night). In addition, irregular buzzing in my left ear, which the ENT at hospital has told me is tinnitus.

My wife is always complaining that I do not seem to respond to her when she speaks to me – simply because I do not hear what she is saying. I also cannot hear what people say in environments when music is playing or people are talking.

Can I make a CNC machinist deafness claim for compensation for my hearing problems?

Q&A – CNC Machinist Injury

Q: Can I claim compensation for hearing loss and tinnitus caused by working as a CNC machinist?

A: Yes - but only on the condition that your employer is found to be negligent (and / or in breach of statutory duty) for your excessive noise exposure. In other words the noise of the CNC machine was excessive (such as to cause danger to your hearing) and inadequate or no hearing protection was provided by your employer. In addition, time periods apply to start a claim before it is too late to claim. I\therefore - if you suffer from reduced hearing or a buzzing / ringing in your ears (tinnitus) - you should consult with a solicitor immediately to see if you have a claim.

SOLICITOR DETAILED RESPONSE – CNC Machinist Claims

The symptoms you have described and the results of the hearing test audiogram all point to noise induced hearing loss & tinnitus from excessive work noise.

One ear is often closer to the CNC machine

It also typical when using machines that one ear is closer to the machine than the other and the hearing problems in that ear are greater.

Therefore, in your case it is likely your right ear. Indeed – most people are right handed and operate machinery primarily with their dominant right hand. Hence – the right ear being closer to the sound source).

hearing loss tinnitus audiogram
Hearing Loss Tinnitus Audiogram Testing Equipment

The shout test can indicate noise levels are too high

The noise levels you have described at work – such that you could not hear what colleagues were saying without your CNC power lathe being turned off suggest that the shout test would be satisfied. The shout test is a rule of thumb guide to demonstrate excessive noise levels at work

No hearing protection provided despite worker complaints

The fact that no hearing protection was provided despite you having complained and it being promised also suggests excessive noise levels.

Time period you worked as a machinist

You indicated that you worked 21 years as a CNC machinist. Clearly the longer your noise exposure – the more likely your hearing could be damaged by excessive noise.

How long since your employment ended

Limitation generally runs from date of injury or knowledge of injury.

However, date of knowledge of hearing damage is often much later than the date of initial exposure to a hazardous work environment (here excessive noise).

Hearing loss diagnosis by occupational health

From your description the statutory limitation period is likely to run from the date that occupational health in your new job pointed out your reduction in hearing levels.

Tinnitus is alsp hearing damage

Tinnitus – the buzzing in your ears, is also another type of hearing problem caused by excessive noise exposure. Therefore, your CNC machinist deafness claim would be for hearing loss and tinnitus.

Evidence supports a CNC machinist hearing loss claim

It would therefore seem you have a strong CNC machinist deafness claim for hearing problems caused.

Claim lost income, medical expenses, cost of hearing aids

In addition, you should be able to claim for financial loss and expense.

For example – lost income, medical expenses, travel expenses to the doctor & hospital.

In some cases – you may be able to claim the cost of in the ear hearing aids (if the NHS hearing aids can be shown not to be suitable).

Commencing A CNC Machinist Claim

You will generally need a specialist solicitor to help you make your CNC machinist claim.

To receive free legal assistance (select by telephone or online) see our specialist solicitor online legal help.

You can ask a question and have your CNC machinist claim assessed.

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