WORKERS who have had their hearing damaged could be in line for massive compensation payouts.
A Hearing Day in Ellesmere Port on December 8 will offer industrial workers advice from solicitors and ear exams by audiologists to assess the extent of people’s hearing difficulties.
Industrial injury lawyers Attwood Solicitors have organised the free event to be held at the Whitby Sports and Social Club, Chester Road.
Experts say many older and retired workers are now suffering hearing loss after being subjected to high levels of noise while working in heavy industries during the 1970s and 80s.
Attwood are expecting car workers and petrochemical plant employees from Ellesmere Port.
Previous hearing days have attracted more than 1,000 people.
Ashley Attwood, principal solicitor, says past clients have received up to £15,000.
He added: “Many workers who experienced hearing loss while working in extremely noisy environments have simply put up with it.
“Employees may wrongly believe it is too late to claim compensation.
“People perhaps don’t realise that even if the damage was caused many years ago they may still be entitled to get help and compensation.”
A Scandinavian study into the health of shipyard workers showed about half had hearing problems.
Cheshire welder Stephen Rothwell was awarded £12,000 after suffering hearing problems while working for Winsford based Henry Smith Constructional Engineering between 1976 and 2003.
He was never advised to wear ear protectors, despite working in a noisy steel fabrication factory.
Current and retired workers can call 0800 587 3231 to book an appointment in advance.
