Commuting on the Tube Could Be a Cause of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Increasing noise levels on London Underground lines causes concern for regular commuters

Recent reports highlight a troubling aspect of daily commuting on London’s underground: the potential for noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). A particularly loud section of the Victoria line, measured at a staggering 112.3 decibels (dB), raises concerns for commuters who regularly traverse this noisy environment. This level of noise exceeds that of a typical music concert and is akin to standing near a chainsaw. Given the increasing noise levels and the implications for hearing health, it is essential to understand the potential risks associated with commuting on the tube.

Rising Noise Levels

Commuters riding between Finsbury Park and Highbury and Islington have reported discomfort due to the intense high-pitched shriek that escalates as the train accelerates. According to Transport for London (TfL), this is not an isolated issue; noise levels across the Victoria line have reached record highs. Union representatives from Aslef and the RMT are alarmed, noting that drivers have been issued ear defenders, as noise levels during shifts now exceed legal limits. They attribute this issue primarily to a lack of rail maintenance and funding cuts for rail grinding, a necessary measure to reduce noise and friction.

Understanding Noise at Work Regulations

Under the UK's Noise at Work Regulations, exposure to noise levels above 80dB requires employers to take action to reduce risk, and exposure above 85dB can result in mandatory protective measures. Historically, action levels have been established to protect workers from irreversible hearing damage. Exposure to noise at 112.2dB for just two minutes is the equivalent of being exposed to noise of 88dB(A) over a full eight-hour shift. This equivalence underscores the serious implications for those commuting frequently on the tube, where even brief high-intensity noise exposure can be the same as working all day in a noisy environment. Regular commuting and exposure to noise at these levels for just two minutes a day could cause NIHL.

The Risk of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

While TfL asserts that passenger noise exposure does not reach the levels endured by train operators, the fact remains that commuters are still susceptible to harmful sound levels. We would expect 50% of commuters exposed to the noise levels of 112.2dB for two minutes per day for one and a half years will develop permanent hearing loss.

Implications for Claims

For those handling claims for compensation for noise-induced hearing loss, it is crucial to look at the broader context of exposure. While it is typical to consider the exposure a claimant may have had from shooting firearms or a motorcycling hobby we should now be vigilant and where appropriate ask an engineer to also consider the contribution to a claimant’s overall exposure from commuting on the tube.

As noise-induced hearing loss is a divisible injury an employer’s contribution to any damages may be reduced if it is determined the claimant has other exposures above 85dB.