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News Desk | News Story
12th November 2009
College lecturer compensated for deafness
Noise-induced deafness and tinnitus
A college lecturer has been left with permanent damage to his hearing after being exposed to excessive noise at work.
Malcolm Hipkin, 65, from Gateshead received damages after he was diagnosed with noise-induced deafness and tinnitus.
He was exposed to excessive noise while working at Gateshead College during the 1960s and 70s.
He lectured in motor vehicle body work and was often in the workshop for 8 hours at a time teaching classes of students how to use impact chisels, a type of pneumatic tool.
Mr Hipkin worked for the college for 41 years but has now retired.
He went to his doctor who told him he needed a hearing aid. Sometime later he was advised by the University and College Union (UCU) health and safety rep at the college that his hearing loss was likely to be as a result of his work.
Thompsons Solicitors made claim for compensation
The UCU instructed its lawyers Thompsons Solicitors to pursue a claim for compensation.
Gateshead College admitted liability and settled the claim out of court.
Mr Hipkin said: “People told me for a number of years that I was going deaf but I didn’t believe them.
“We weren’t provided with hearing protection and the room wasn’t sound-proofed but we were being exposed to the noise over a long period of time most days.”
Sally Hunt UCU general secretary said: “This case shows how occupational deafness can affect those working in a number of different industries. Employers must be aware of their responsibilities to ensure their staff are given the correct hearing protection to avoid exposure to excessive noise.”
Michelle Reid Mitchell from Thompsons Solicitors added: “Hearing loss can have a profound impact on the lifestyle and confidence of those exposed. Those who are negligently exposed to excessive noise are entitled to pursue a claim for compensation.”
Advice about Compensation Claims for Occupational Deafness
If you or someone you know has developed occupational deafness or any other industrial illness, telephone us now for accurate claim advice.
There are strict time limits in place to make any personal injury claim, including claims for occupational deafness. For further information, contact us or visit our Questions Answered page.
Thompsons Solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim for occupational deafness in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have. If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct Thompsons Solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your industrial deafness, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you. Telephone us now on 08000 224 224 or complete one of our online personal injury compensation claim forms.
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