A FORMER mill worker who suffers from noise-induced hearing loss has won a settlement against his former employer.

Brian Haworth, 80, on Hallam Crescent, Nelson has been looking to move on with his life after lawyers helped him secure a four-figure settlement following a legal battle with his former employer regarding his hearing problems.

Mr Haworth worked at Park Mill in Burnley for Qualitex Yarns Ltd - later known as Mitrelle Ltd - as a crimper, a role which saw him monitor and maintain yarns and spindles whilst machinery was operating.

The pensioner said he was never provided with hearing protection or warned of the dangers of noise when working in close proximity to weaving machinery during his time at Qualitex Yarns Ltd between 1967 and 1974.

After developing a gradual hearing loss he instructed specialist workplace illness lawyers at Irwin Mitchell investigated whether the issues could be related to his working life.

The former mill worker said: “The mill was always very noisy and with spindles running at around 7,000 rpm, they tended to make a high-pitched piercing noise.

“It was a massive place and you had to really shout in your colleague’s ear to hear them.

“The machinery was never switched off and would run all day everyday unless there was any planned maintenance.

“Throughout my time there I was never provided with any advice or safety equipment, so I simply assumed there was no long term risks to my health.

“To have developed hearing problems has been hugely frustrating and it has left me isolated and often unable to get involved in normal conversations.

“While it has been hard to come to terms with the hearing loss, this settlement has given me a more positive outlook for the future as I know these funds will ensure I can continue to get the care, support and hearing aids I need to get the best from life.”

Mark Allen, head of the workplace illness team at Irwin Mitchell, said: “This case is an important reminder as to why workers should always be provided with proper training and safety advice when working in environments where they are likely to be exposed to high levels of noise.

“Our client has been left with hearing problems which will affect him for the rest of his life as a result of the failings of his employer and, while we are delighted to have helped him gain a settlement regarding the issue, it is vital that lessons are learned from this.”