Cheshire Textile Worker Compensated For Industrial Deafness

Industrial Deafness

23/04/2008

A textile worker from Cheshire who developed Industrial Deafness has received a payment of £5,750 from his ex-employers, who have also agreed to pay his legal costs.

William Gee (51) of Warrington in Cheshire made a claim against Danfield Limited where he worked as a Textile Technician and latterly as a Production Manager.

Mr Gee claimed he was exposed to excessive and constant levels of noise from the numerous twisting machines that were in operation at the factory premises in Leigh, Wigan where they manufactured yarns for embroidery mattresses and quilts.

Ear protection was introduced during the 1980's however it was argued by Mr Gee’s solicitors, Irwin Mitchell, that this protection was inadequate and not readily available.

Although Danfield Limited denied liability, a settlement offer was made to Mr Gee after independent witnesses and a court appointed expert gave evidence in support of Mr Gee's claim.

Mr Gee's settlement was secured with the help of Alison Gregory of the Industrial Disease Team at law firm Irwin Mitchell.

Ms Gregory said: "This case highlights the importance of employers providing a safe system of work for its employees, through readily available measures including ear protection."

Mr Gee said: "I am now left with deafness and tinnitus. I just hope that through taking this legal action other companies are warned about the dangers of noise in the workplace, and that other workers are protected from the long term effects of hearing damage."