About Military Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Military service often involves exposure to extreme noise levels, which can lead to permanent hearing damage. This condition — commonly known as Military Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (MNIHL) — is one of the most frequent military injury claims in the UK.

If your hearing has been affected by your service, you may be eligible to make a military hearing loss claim.

Exposure to loud environments is a known risk across all branches of the Armed Forces. Common sources include:

• Gunfire and live-fire exercises
• Artillery, mortars, and explosives
• Aircraft engines (ground crew and aircrew)
• Naval engine rooms
• Armoured vehicles and heavy machinery

Repeated exposure to these conditions can result in noise-induced hearing damage, particularly where:

• Hearing protection was not provided
• Equipment was inadequate
• Training on protection was insufficient

In these cases, you may have grounds for a hearing damage compensation claim.

Conductive Hearing Loss

Damage to the outer or middle ear affecting sound transmission.

• Sometimes treatable
• Can result from blast injuries

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

The most common type of military deafness.

• Permanent and irreversible
• Caused by prolonged noise exposure
• Often linked to firearms and machinery

Mixed Hearing Loss

A combination of both types, often requiring complex medical evaluation.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)

Gradual or sudden hearing deterioration, often affecting high-frequency sounds.

Tinnitus

Persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears—one of the most common military tinnitus claims.

Hyperacusis

Increased sensitivity to everyday sounds.

These conditions often occur together and may worsen over time.

• Gunfire can reach 175 decibels, far exceeding safe limits
• Hearing damage can develop years after service
• Many veterans are unaware they can claim compensation

You may still be eligible even if you left the military years ago.