You knew the engine was loud, but you didn’t expect to lose part of your hearing.
You felt the constant rumble of the hull, but you didn’t realize it could permanently damage your hands.
Maritime workers endure relentless noise and vibration every day, often without understanding the long-term toll it can take.
If you’ve been hurt by noise or vibration at sea, there are things you can do to protect your recovery, and you don’t have to do them alone. At Hofmann & Schweitzer, we help injured seamen across New Jersey and the nation pursue justice. If you’ve suffered hearing loss, nerve damage, or other injuries from onboard conditions, our experienced maritime injury lawyers are here to help you get a fair financial recovery.
Injuries Caused by Noise and Vibration at Sea
Maritime workers are routinely exposed to hazardous noise levels and mechanical vibrations. Over time, these conditions can lead to serious, life-altering health problems such as:
- Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Prolonged exposure to loud engine rooms, hydraulic systems, or winches can cause permanent damage to the tiny hair cells in the inner ear, leading to progressive hearing loss.
- Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). Repetitive use of vibrating tools or prolonged contact with vibrating surfaces can cause numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and circulatory problems in the hands and arms.
- Whole-body vibration injuries. Exposure to engine vibrations through the seat or floor can affect spinal discs, circulation, and internal organs, particularly during long shifts on poorly cushioned surfaces.
These injuries often develop slowly and worsen over time, making early recognition and documentation crucial for any future legal claim.
Symptoms of Work-Related Noise or Vibration Injuries
It’s easy to dismiss early symptoms, like occasional ringing in the ears or hand numbness. But these can be red flags for serious underlying damage.
Accordingly, it’s essential to be aware of warning signs, such as:
- Ringing or buzzing in the ears. This may be an early sign of permanent hearing loss.
- Tingling, pain, or loss of grip strength. These symptoms are common in Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) and can worsen without treatment.
- Fatigue or pain in your spine after long shifts. This could indicate whole-body vibration exposure.
If symptoms persist or interfere with your work, see a doctor and report the issue to your supervisor.
What to Do After a Maritime Noise or Vibration Injury
It can be confusing to know what to do about your injury, especially if you are still at sea. Some of the essential things you can do to protect your rights and recovery include:
- Seek medical attention. Get a formal diagnosis and ensure your condition is well-documented.
- Report the injury. Notify your supervisor in writing and keep a copy.
- Gather evidence. Record the tasks, equipment, and environments that contributed to your symptoms.
Additionally, you can consult a maritime injury lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you are taking the right steps to protect your future.
Why It’s Critical to Speak With a Maritime Lawyer
Noise and vibration injuries are often underreported and poorly understood. Employers may deny your claim, downplay your symptoms, or argue that your injuries are “just part of the job.”
A skilled New Jersey maritime lawyer can:
- Advise you of your rights. A federal maritime law, such as the Jones Act, may protect you. An experienced lawyer can consider all applicable maritime laws and make sure your rights are protected.
- Investigate your claim. Your lawyer will evaluate all evidence and make sure that evidence that is in the control of others is preserved.
- Build a strong case. Your lawyer will use evidence to show how the noise or vibration on the job caused your injury.
- Fight for maximum compensation. Your compensation may include maintenance, cure, future medical care, and lost earning potential.
Noise and vibration injuries don’t heal with rest. They require action, both medically and legally. Whether you’ve just started noticing symptoms or are already struggling to work, you deserve answers and support.
