More Than 300 People Who Worked On Vehicle Programme Set To Undergo Assessments

A number of military personnel have instructed specialist lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate how they have been left with hearing loss after working on the Ajax Armoured Vehicle Programme.

Military personnel across the country have for some time now been responsible for testing Ajax vehicles.  This involved a rigorous routine with various personnel.

It was reported in the media that concerns around vibration and noise from these vehicles had been raised prior to any specific issues being identified, but it appeared that no further action had been taken at the time.

Last November, however, a number of those working on the Ajax Armoured Vehicle Programme were asked to attend Bulford Camp in Wiltshire to undertake hearing tests following the problems coming to light.  These included an issue with their compatibility with the hearing protection in place.

Several of the personnel were subsequently found to have suffered some level of noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) , including tinnitus.  Following this, a number instructed military experts at Irwin Mitchell to investigate their exposure to noise working on these vehicles to see if more could have been done to prevent their suffering.

Expert Opinion

“Our clients’ symptoms vary, but there is a general theme NIHL and tinnitus which has had a substantial impact on their day-to-day lives and is likely to cause them psychological injuries, as well as potentially resulting in the end of their service careers..

It has recently been reported that, in addition to the 121 personnel who have undergone hearing assessments, a further 189 have been identified as having been in sufficiently close contact with the vehicles in question to necessitate assessments, bringing the total number to 310. It is likely that there will be a number of further cases arising from these assessments, as personnel who may have put their symptoms down to stress realise that they now suffer from NIHL.

This is deeply concerning and we’ll continue to support our clients throughout the process.”
Carol Purang - Senior Associate

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in handling military injury cases