3M Combat Arms Earplug Claims

Have you served in the Armed Forces and suffered hearing problems after the use of faulty 3M Earplugs between 2003 – 2015?

Hearing loss is one of the most widespread and life-altering injuries suffered by members of the British Armed Forces.  A growing number of veterans are now pursuing legal action over defective hearing protection equipment, with the focus on 3M Combat Arms Earplugs (Version 2).

At Ison Harrison Solicitors, we are committed to helping veterans understand their rights and secure the compensation they deserve.

The 3M Earplug Controversy: A Defective Defence?

Between 2003 and 2015, thousands of UK service personnel were issued 3M Combat Arms Earplugs (Version 2). This was a dual-ended earplug designed to protect against loud impulse noise while allowing speech and ambient sounds to be heard.

However, mounting evidence suggests these earplugs were defectively designed. The core allegation is that they were too short to form a proper seal, potentially loosening imperceptibly in the ear and failing to protect users from harmful noise exposure.

This issue first came to light in the United States, where the Department of Justice secured a $6 billion settlement for 240,000 American service members affected by hearing loss linked to the product. Although 3M did not admit liability, the scale of the settlement has prompted similar legal action in the UK.

Legal Action in the UK: Group Claims and Political Pressure

British veterans are now joining a group litigation effort, alleging that the defective earplugs contributed to long-term hearing damage. UK law firms have gathered substantial evidence and are pursuing claims on behalf of affected individuals.

The case has attracted political attention, with calls for an independent inquiry into the extent of hearing loss caused by the equipment. While 3M maintains that the earplugs were safe when used correctly, the legal challenge continues to gain momentum.

Compensation Options for Affected Veterans

Veterans suffering from hearing loss may be eligible for compensation through two main routes:

1. Statutory Schemes

• War Pension Scheme; for injuries sustained before April 2005
• Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS); for injuries after April 2005

Between 2005 and 2023, 3,118 claims were accepted under the AFCS for noise-induced hearing loss. However, the scheme has been criticised for:

• Requiring a 50 dB hearing loss threshold in both ears
• Excluding tinnitus as a standalone condition
• Offering limited access to discreet hearing aids via the NHS

2. Civil Litigation

Claims for negligence against the Ministry of Defence which require claimants to prove breach of duty.   Furthermore, there is agreement in place for service personnel to pursue claims for hearing loss under the Matrix Agreement which can include pre 1987 exposure.

Why This Matters

Hearing loss and tinnitus can have devastating effects on a veteran’s quality of life. Many service personnel report:

• Difficulty communicating with family
• Social isolation
• Career limitations both in and out of service

The 3M earplug litigation represents a critical opportunity for affected veterans to seek justice and financial redress.

How Ison Harrison Can Support You

At Ison Harrison Solicitors, we offer:

• Specialist legal advice in military and personal injury claims
• Support with both statutory and civil compensation routes
• A no-obligation consultation to assess your eligibility
• We can deal with your claim on a No Win-No Fee basis

We understand the unique challenges faced by veterans and are here to help you navigate the legal process with clarity and confidence.

Contact us today to speak with a solicitor who understands your situation.

• call us on 0113 224 7837
• email [email protected]
• fill in the contact and call-back form on this page

to arrange your free consultation.