Mr Geoffrey Oxley, a noise induced hearing loss sufferer, wins settlement of £3,500.00 through WE Solicitors.

Mr Oxley was exposed to excessive levels of noise, whilst working in the textiles industry. He was employed as a doffer by Smith & Nephew Medical Fabrics Ltd, of Brierfield Mills, Brierfield, Lancashire. Mr Oxley worked as a doffer from around 1964 to 1971 and was based in Warps 1 and 2, which were the spinning departments of the mill.

Throughout Mr Oxley’s employment, he was exposed to noise levels in excess of 90dB, from the numerous spinning frames in operation. Mr Oxley’s job was to collect yarn from the spinning frames and consequently, he worked within very close proximity to the loud machinery.

During Mr Oxley’s employment, he was never provided with hearing protection and nor was he ever made aware of the dangers that working in excessive noise gives rise to. Mr Oxley advises it was an issue that was simply never mentioned in those days.

Mr Oxley now suffers from mild noise induced hearing loss and mild noise related tinnitus, which was confirmed when WE Solicitors arranged a medical assessment of his hearing condition. This was presented to the defendants, as part of the evidence, to support Mr Oxley’s claim.

The defendant’s representatives admitted liability for Mr Oxley’s case, as soon as they had reviewed the evidence. WE Solicitors were then able to negotiate an out of court settlement of £3,500.00 for Mr Oxley, avoiding the need for court proceedings. Both Mr Oxley and WE Solicitors are very pleased with the outcome.