Can I claim for hearing loss from army service?

Yes. If you served in the British Army and were exposed to excessive noise without adequate hearing protection, you may have a valid compensation claim against the MOD.

What army roles are most at risk of hearing loss?

Artillery, infantry, armoured corps, and engineering roles carry the highest risk. However, any role involving regular exposure to weapons fire, vehicles, or machinery can cause hearing damage.

I was in the Royal Artillery — can I claim?

Royal Artillery personnel are among the most common claimants for military hearing loss. The extreme noise from firing howitzers and field guns causes significant hearing damage.

How do I get my army service records?

Your solicitor will request your service records from the Army Personnel Centre in Glasgow. These records confirm your postings, roles, and dates of service.

Can I claim for hearing loss from army training?

Yes. Noise exposure during training exercises, weapons ranges, and field exercises counts. You do not need to have served on operations to claim.

British Army Deafness & Hearing Loss Compensation Claims

Last updated: April 2026

British Army veterans and serving personnel can claim compensation for hearing loss or tinnitus caused by service noise, through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme or a civil claim against the Ministry of Defence. There is no minimum length of service, and you can claim after leaving the forces.

Noise Sources in the British Army

Artillery fire (105mm, 155mm howitzers) — up to 185dB
Small arms fire (SA80, GPMG, heavy machine guns)
Armoured fighting vehicles (Warrior, Challenger, Bulldog)
Helicopter operations (Chinook, Apache, Lynx)
Explosive ordnance disposal and demolitions
Generator noise in forward operating bases

Most At-Risk Roles

Royal Artillery

Gunners face some of the highest noise levels in the military from firing 105mm and 155mm howitzers. Hearing damage is extremely common among artillerymen.

Infantry

Regular weapons training and operational use of rifles, machine guns, and grenades expose infantry soldiers to dangerous noise levels, especially in enclosed environments.

Royal Armoured Corps

Tank crews and armoured vehicle operators are exposed to constant engine noise, weapons fire from turret-mounted systems, and radio communications at high volume.

Royal Engineers

Engineers working with demolitions, construction equipment, and power tools face sustained noise exposure across varied environments.

Historical Context

For decades, the British Army did not adequately protect soldiers' hearing. Before the 1990s, hearing protection was often unavailable, inadequate, or impractical in operational environments. Even after ear defenders became standard issue, many soldiers were not trained in their proper use or found them incompatible with helmets and communication equipment.

Check your eligibility, see compensation amounts, or understand time limits. Claims are handled on a no win no fee basis.