FG Wilson began operations in 1966 and grew to become Northern Ireland’s leading provider of generator sets, with sites in West Belfast, Monkstown, and Larne. In 1993, they expanded into a 70,000-square-metre facility in Larne to support their growth. After being acquired by Caterpillar in 1999, the company continued to thrive, employing thousands of people across its Northern Ireland locations.

While the relocation was positive news for the company, employees at the new Larne facility were often required to work in noisy conditions with insufficient protective equipment. As a result many workers were put at risk of developing conditions like “noise-induced hearing loss” (industrial hearing loss) and tinnitus.

Noise-induced hearing loss occurs when prolonged exposure to high noise levels damages the sensitive structures in the inner ear, resulting in permanent hearing loss. Tinnitus is a condition where individuals experience constant or intermittent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in their ears, often as a result of excessive noise exposure.

Specific examples of machinery and tools at FG Wilson/Caterpillar that can cause noise-induced hearing loss include:

• Riveters – The repetitive, high-impact noise from riveters can exceed safe decibel levels, causing long-term hearing damage.
• CNC Machines – These machines produce high-pitched noises during precision cutting and shaping, contributing to harmful noise exposure.
• Compressors – Industrial compressors emit a continuous loud hum, posing a risk to hearing without proper ear protection.
• Generators – As a key part of FG Wilson’s production, generators create constant loud noise during assembly and testing, exposing workers to harmful sound levels.
• Hammering – Regular hammering during assembly can produce sudden, intense bursts of noise, which can be damaging over time without adequate protection.

If you worked for FG Wilson or Caterpillar in Northern Ireland and experienced hearing loss from noisy conditions, you may be eligible to claim compensation. This includes current and former employees who lacked proper hearing protection during their time at the company.

Making a claim is important because it can help cover medical costs, lost earnings and the challenges of living with hearing loss. It also helps ensure safer conditions for other workers, by holding FG Wilson/Caterpillar accountable.

Generally, you have three years from the date of diagnosis or when you connected your hearing loss to your work. However, there can be exceptions, especially if symptoms took time to develop.

Even if you’re unsure or think you’ve missed the deadline, contact us for free advice. We can help you understand your options.

Our process for making a hearing loss claim in Northern Ireland is straightforward and tailored for claims against employers like FG Wilson/Caterpillar. This means you’ll receive the support you need every step of the way.

Step 1: Contact Reid Black
Reach out to our team, and we’ll discuss the details of your hearing loss case. Our solicitors will provide initial advice and explain the process for pursuing a claim against FG Wilson/Caterpillar.

Step 2: Gathering Information
We will collect evidence, such as your employment records and details about noise exposure at FG Wilson/Caterpillar. Our solicitors will help gather the necessary documentation to build a strong case.

Step 3: Medical Assessment
You’ll attend a medical assessment to evaluate the extent of your hearing loss. Our team will arrange this for you and use the results to support your claim.

Step 4: Compensation Negotiations
We’ll negotiate with FG Wilson/Caterpillar’s insurers to seek fair compensation for your hearing loss. Our solicitors work to secure the best outcome without the need for a court appearance, if possible.

Step 5: Compensation Payout
Once a settlement is reached, you’ll receive your compensation directly. Our solicitors ensure that the payment is processed smoothly, so you get what you deserve as quickly as possible

Compensation for hearing loss claims against FG Wilson/Caterpillar in Northern Ireland is usually paid by their insurer rather than the employer directly. This means your claim won’t affect the day-to-day operations of the company, yet you’ll still receive a fair amount of compensation for your hearing loss.

The amount of compensation you may receive depends on several factors that will be assessed through medical assessments and supporting evidence. They include things like:

• The severity of your hearing loss, how it affects your ability to work.
• Any loss of earnings, both past and future.
• The impact on your quality of life, such as difficulties in communication or social interaction.

According to Northern Ireland guidelines, compensation for hearing loss varies as follows:

• Total Deafness: £250,000 – £350,000
• Total Loss of Hearing in One Ear: £50,000 – £100,000
• Severe Hearing Loss: £60,000 – £200,000
• Moderate Hearing Loss: £20,000 – £60,000
• Mild Hearing Loss: Up to £20,000
• Severe Tinnitus: £40,000 – £90,000
• Moderate Tinnitus: £20,000 – £40,000
• Mild Tinnitus: Up to £20,000

Compensation can be provided as a lump sum payment, which offers immediate access to the full amount awarded. Alternatively, in some cases, it might be structured into smaller, regular payments over time, particularly if the compensation is meant to cover ongoing medical expenses or loss of earnings.

Our solicitors will help you understand the options available and ensure you receive your compensation in the way that best suits your needs.