Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) Military Compensation Claims
Last updated: April 2026
Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common hearing condition among military veterans. It is caused by prolonged exposure to loud noise during service without adequate hearing protection. NIHL is permanent, but compensation can be claimed from the Ministry of Defence.
What Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?
NIHL is a type of sensorineural hearing loss caused by damage to the hair cells in the inner ear (cochlea). These cells cannot regenerate once damaged. The condition develops gradually over time with repeated noise exposure, often going unnoticed until significant hearing ability has been lost.
What Causes NIHL in the Military?
Military personnel are exposed to noise levels far exceeding safe limits:
- Weapons fire (rifles, machine guns, artillery) — up to 185dB
- Armoured vehicles and tank engines — 100-120dB
- Aircraft engines (jet and propeller) — 120-140dB
- Explosions and ordnance — 150dB+
- Generator and workshop noise — 90-110dB
Safe exposure limits are 85dB for 8 hours. Many military activities far exceed this.
How Is NIHL Diagnosed?
NIHL is diagnosed through a pure tone audiogram. This test measures your hearing at frequencies from 250Hz to 8000Hz. NIHL typically shows a characteristic "noise notch" — a dip in hearing at 4000Hz — which distinguishes it from age-related hearing loss.
NIHL Grading and Compensation
Hearing loss severity is graded based on your audiogram results using averaged hearing thresholds. This grading directly maps to AFCS tariff levels and influences civil claim valuations. Categories range from mild (25-40dB loss) through moderate (41-70dB) and severe (71-90dB) to profound (90dB+).