Numbers of new cases of noise-induced deafness qualifying for Industrial Injuries Scheme disablement benefit fell steadily with the single exception of an increase in 1999 from the mid 1980s, until reaching 225 in 2000, when annual numbers were over 1000. Since 2000 there has been fluctuation in the number of new cases, ranging from 265 in 2001 to 325 in 2004. With no clear trend up or down.
The estimated number of cases of hearing loss seen for the first time in 2004 by Audiologicalsts and Occupational Physicians in the OPRA/OSSA reporting schemes was 291 a decrease from 488 in 2003.
Estimates from the Self-reported Work-related Illness (SWI) surveys: the SWI survey in 2004/05 estimated that 74 000 people ever employed in Great Britain were suffering from work-related hearing problems in this year.
The industry groups with the highest average annual incidence rates
of new cases qualifying for benefit (based on 2002-04 figures) were extraction
energy and water supply, manufacturing and construction.
Occupations with high incidence rates based on OSSA reports in 2002-04 included NCOs and other ranks in the armed forces and other labourers in making and processing and machine tool operatives.
A Medical Research Council survey
in 1997-98 gave a prevalence estimate of 509,000 people in Great Britain
suffering from hearing difficulties as a result of exposure to noise at
work.
