Hearing Loss Among Seafarers

Long-Term Impact of High Noise Levels

Operational areas of ships with high noise levels may cause gradual hearing loss among seafarers. Prolonged noise exposure in these areas is a key occupational hazard in the maritime industry. Hearing impairment is a known issue, especially among personnel who work in an engine room. Seafarers are often unaware of the impact of noise-induced hearing loss until it becomes severe.

If you believe you have suffered from hearing loss due to employer’s negligence, Jefferies Claims may be able to assist. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

Does Hearing Loss Occur Over Time?

Yes, hearing loss among seafarers, especially those working in high-noise environments like the engine room, typically develops over time. This is known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), a gradual condition caused by continuous exposure to loud sounds.

The engine room is considered to be one of the loudest on a vessel. This is due to diesel engines, turbines, compressors and other heavy machinery that may generate noise levels above the safety level of 85 decibels.

Prolonged exposure to noise above 85dB without proper hearing protection may lead to permanent hearing damage. If you are exposed over a period of time to high decibel levels, hair cells in the cochlea are damaged . This results in permanent hearing loss which happens gradually.

You may not notice immediate symptoms. But red flags may include trouble hearing in a noisy environment, difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, or a persistent ringing in your ears (tinnitus).

Factors Contributing to Hearing Loss Among Seafarers

Several factors influence potential hearing loss among seafarers:

Duration of Exposure: The longer a person is exposed to high noise levels, the greater the risk of hearing impairment. You may be vulnerable if you have been working in the engine room for extended shifts over many years.

Lack of Protective Equipment: While ear protection such as earmuffs and earplugs may be available, not all seafarers use them consistently. Poor compliance with protective measures increases your risk of hearing loss.

Age and Pre-existing Conditions: Older seafarers are more susceptible to hearing loss due to the combined effects of age-related hearing decline and long-term noise exposure.

Environmental Factors: Enclosed spaces like engine rooms amplify noise levels. This increases the risk of hearing damage compared to open deck areas where noise dissipates more easily.

Frequency of Noise Exposure: Repeated exposure to high-frequency noise, such as alarms and high-pitched engine sounds, may accelerate hearing loss.

Hearing damage not only affects your ability to perform your duties efficiently but also has broader implications for your quality of life. You may find your ability to hear alarms, instructions or conversations is reduced. This can increase risks in the work environment.

Compensation for Long Term Hearing Loss

Employers have a legal duty to protect workers from excessive noise exposure. But if your employer has failed to provide adequate hearing protection, conduct noise assessments or implement safety measure, you may be entitled to claim for compensation.

If you are considering making a claim, you will need to be diagnosed with noise-induced hearing loss by an audiologist. You will also have to gather proof of working in a high noise environment and evidence that your employer did not provide proper hearing protection or training.

Jefferies Claims can guide you through the next steps of making a claim. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and who are highly experienced to take your case forward.

Call us at 0333 358 3034 or visit Jefferies Claims Contact Page to discuss your potential claim in a free, no-obligation consultation.