Many workers in noisy workplaces such as manufacturing facilities, factories, shipyards, construction sites and the military, simply accept that hearing loss from work is just ‘part of the job’. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. If your hearing has deteriorated because of prolonged exposure to loud noise at work, you may be suffering from Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)—a condition legally recognised as occupational deafness.
The UK benefits system recognises Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) as a legitimate occupational disease and the truth is, most of those affected by NIHL are unaware that there is financial support available from the government.
The fact is, if your hearing has been damaged due to your job or working environment, you may be eligible for financial support through the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB).
The process of claiming benefits for Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) can be complex. This guide will walk you through the types of benefits available, the eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
What is IIDB?
Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) is a government compensation scheme for people who become disabled due to a work-related disease or injury. Similar to other disability benefits, it is calculated based on the level of disablement.
The amount you receive depends on the severity of your hearing loss and how it affects your daily life. Generally, to be eligible for payment, your disablement score needs to be 14% or higher. Weekly payments can range from £45 to £225, depending on the extent of your disability.
Am I Eligible to Claim Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit?
To be eligible to claim IIDB for occupational deafness, you must meet several criteria:
1. Hearing Loss Threshold
You must have 50 decibels (dB) or more hearing loss in both ears, confirmed through an audiology assessment. In daily life, this could mean:
- Difficulty in hearing normal conversations
- Inability to hear whispers or low-volume speech
- Relying on subtitles when watching TV
If this sounds familiar, you may meet the threshold for a IIDB claim.
2. Work-Related Noise Exposure
You must have:
- Worked in a noisy job for 10 years or more (these years can be non-consecutive)
- Used or worked close to specific machines known to cause hearing damage. Examples include:
- Band saws, circular saws, cutting discs
- Grinding tools, pneumatic percussive tools
- Pressurised air arc tools, vibrating moulding boxes
- Multi-cutter moulding machines
- Machines used in ship engines
- Compressed air spinning machines
- Firearms (e.g. in military or security roles)
- Jets of water at a pressure above 680 bar
- Textile or fibre weaving machines
Note: This list isn’t exhaustive —other tools and industrial equipment that produce harmful noise levels may also qualify
Is There a Time Limit to Claim Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)?
There is no fixed legal time limit for making a claim for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit. However, you should apply as soon as possible after becoming aware of your condition and its connection to your workplace.
How to Apply for IIDB?
You’ll need to complete two forms to claim for IIDB:
- Form BI100PD
- Form BI100OD
You can access both forms at www.gov.uk.
The application will ask for:
- The type of condition you’re claiming for (in this case, occupational deafness)
- A detailed employment history
- Information on the machines or tools used
- When and where noise exposure occurred
- A recent audiology assessment to support your claim (recommended but not mandatory).
Do I need a solicitor to apply for IIDB?
You don’t need a solicitor to apply for IIDB, but it can be helpful to ensure you get the right level of financial support. Gathering the evidence and documentation can be difficult, and it’s easy to underestimate or overlook things that can have a big impact on your claim. Choosing a solicitor that specialises in work-related hearing loss compensation claims is the best way to get a successful IIDB claim.
Stanworth Law are specialists in NIHL claims. We understand the legal and regulatory framework around hearing loss and how it pertains to each individual claim. For experienced support in applying for IIDB, gathering evidence and arranging a medical assessment, contact our specialist team today.