Join our military hearing loss claim against earplug manufacturer 3M

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

'Why I've joined this claim'

Dave Pettifer's story

As a Royal Marine, Dave Pettifer served in the heavy weapons and anti-tanks sub-unit from 2002 to 2012 - but suffered hearing loss in his left ear after three tours in Afghanistan.

Dave joined this group action after hearing that the claim seeks justice from earplug manufacturer 3M - not the MoD.

Dave said: "It's a huge disappointment to know that a massive conglomerate like 3M, who were obligated to supply soldiers with quality equipment which worked properly, were willing to put profit over the welfare of individuals who step up to serve their country. I think I can speak for all British servicemen and women who have been affected by this betrayal when I say that we deserved a lot better".

He added: "On a practical level, the hearing loss I suffered in my left ear affects me on a daily basis, even to the point where my wife has to keep repeating things when I mis-hear. In other instances, including in the work I've done since leaving the Marines, I have often felt embarrassed when I've had to ask people to repeat themselves after not hearing them correctly."

Like Dave, you could be entitled to compensation from 3M.

Taking on 3M for UK Armed Forces and Veterans

Are you one of the thousands of British service personnel who have suffered hearing loss, tinnitus or long-term hearing damage after being issued faulty earplugs manufactured by the American PPE giant 3M? If so, you could be entitled to compensation. That’s why we’re taking on 3M - to get justice and compensation for those who served.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

JOIN WITH A CLEAN CONSCIENCE - WE’RE GOING AFTER 3M:

This legal action is against 3M - not the Ministry of Defence or the Armed Forces. We believe 3M has a responsibility to the thousands of veterans who used and trusted their combat earplugs.

That’s why we're holding the manufacturer accountable.

HELP SECURE JUSTICE - AND DEFEND OUR ARMED FORCES:

You who served were let down. Integrity is a core value for Armed Forces personnel who were betrayed by 3M’s lack of integrity. You believed your hearing was protected - but it wasn’t because 3M’s earplugs didn’t work. You deserve justice and compensation.

IT’S A SIMPLE PROCESS - WITH NO FEE IF UNSUCCESSFUL:

If you served in the UK Armed Forces, were issued 3M earplugs and suffered hearing damage or loss, you are eligible to join the legal claim. If successful, you may receive compensation. It’s a no-win no-fee case.

JOIN WITH A CLEAN CONSCIENCE - WE’RE GOING AFTER 3M:

HELP SECURE JUSTICE - AND DEFEND OUR ARMED FORCES:

IT’S A SIMPLE PROCESS - WITH NO FEE IF UNSUCCESSFUL:

Did you know?

Supplier 3M have agreed to put aside $6BILLION to settle claims in the US.

This is a group action against 3M - this claim is not against the MOD.

You can join the 3M claim even if you've already tried to claim against the MOD

Supplier 3M have agreed to put aside $6BILLION to settle claims in the US.

This is a group action against 3M - this claim is not against the MOD.

If you are already pursuing a claim against the MOD, you may still be entitled to bring a claim against 3M too

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

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My experience was great easy to fill in and answer questions very straight forward and not a long process at all.

It was an extremely smooth and efficient process.

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I found the company efficient and helpful enough when I needed to speak to them.

My experience with KP Law have been very prompt and efficient. They have kept me updated through out process. They have given 100% commitment

3M supplying the MoD with earplugs they knew were faulty is shocking and wrong; so I joined the claim.

It’s a huge disappointment that 3M put profit over the welfare of individuals who step up to serve their country. That’s why I am supporting the legal action.

It’s disgraceful that 3M continued to supply earplugs they would have known were faulty - that’s why I’m joining this claim.

To learn 3M not only supplied faulty earplugs but continued to supply them even after they know they were defective - that’s a kick in the guts. I feel really let down and joined the claim because it’s so wrong.

Why we're taking on 3M for UK veterans

Thousands of British service personnel have suffered hearing loss, tinnitus or long-term hearing damage after being issued faulty earplugs manufactured by the American PPE giant 3M. In the US, 3M have agreed to set aside $6,000,000,000 to settle claims made by American military veterans, serviceman and women.

That's why we're taking on manufacturer 3M. This claim isn't against the MOD

We believe it's time to get justice for the men and women who fought for our country - but were let down by faulty protective equipment. So if you served in the military, used 3M earplugs, and suffer from hearing loss or damage - you could be entitled to compensation.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

JOIN WITH A CLEAN CONSCIENCE - WE’RE NOT GOING AFTER THE MOD:

This legal action is against 3M - not the Ministry of Defence or the Armed Forces. We believe that the Ministry of Defence was misled. That’s why we're holding the manufacturer accountable.

HELP SECURE JUSTICE - AND DEFEND OUR ARMED FORCES:

We believe those who served were let down. The integrity of the earplugs supplied by 3M was not at the standard the MOD expected - nor sufficient to protect those who served.

IT’S A SIMPLE PROCESS - WITH NO FEE IF UNSUCCESSFUL:

If you served in the UK Armed Forces and were issued faulty 3M dual end combat arms earplugs and suffered hearing damage or loss, you are eligible to join the legal claim. If successful, you may receive compensation. It’s a no-win no-fee case.

Securing justice and defending our armed forces

3M is a global corporation with a market capitalisation of $82.9 billion (NYSE, 23.03.25). In the US, they have already agreed a $6 billion settlement with affected military personnel. It's now time the UK Armed Forces personnel get justice too.

Holding 3M to account -
this claim isn't against the MOD

This legal action is against earplug manufacturer 3M - a global corporation with a market capitalisation of $82.9 billion. We believe they should be held to account.

Nothing to lose -
but you could stand to gain

This is a group action claim against 3M, on a no-win no-fee bases. So if you served in the UK Armed Forces, were issued with 3M dual end combat arms earplugs and suffered hearing damage or loss, you are eligible to join the legal claim. If successful, you may receive compensation.

What level of hearing loss do I need to have to make a claim?

Any level of hearing loss is accepted.

Can I claim if I haven’t been formally diagnosed with hearing loss or tinnitus?

Yes, if you suspect you are suffering from hearing loss or tinnitus but have not received a diagnosis, you can still pursue a claim. We will arrange for you to undergo a hearing test to determine whether you are suffering from hearing loss or tinnitus.

Can I claim if I suffer from tinnitus but not hearing loss?

Yes, you can. This claim is open to all those who served in the military and suffer with either hearing loss, or tinnitus.

How is compensation assessed?

Compensation for general damages will be assesed on the severity of your hearing loss and/or tinnitus. In addition to general damages, you may also be entitled to special damages which will be assessed on a case by case basis.

Is this really free? Are there any hidden fees?

No-win, no-fee is a term used to describe an agreement between a lawyer and the client. It states that the client cannot be charged if their claim is unsuccessful, provided the terms of the agreement are adhered to by the parties.

In this matter, if it is successful, you will pay 25% of the amount that is recovered (plus VAT and expenses). Termination fees may apply if you fail to co-operate with your lawyer or withdraw from the claim.

Who is KP Law?

KP Law is a specialist law firm helping British service personnel claim compensation for hearing damage caused by faulty 3M earplugs. We’re experts in group litigation claims.

How can I contact KPLaw?

You can get in touch with KPLaw by Phone: 0161 710 3085 or Email: hearinglossclaim@kpl.co.uk

Who is 3M and what did they do wrong?

3M is a multinational conglomerate based in the United States, known for its wide range of products in various industries, including healthcare, consumer goods, electronics, and industrial solutions.

It is alleged that the 3M Combat Arms Earplug V2.0 were not designed properly, resulting in hearing damage to service personnel who used the earplugs.

I already have a claim with the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme or MOD – can I still claim against 3M?

Yes, you may be able to persue both claims. Claims against 3M are entirely separate and do not affect your Armed Forces Compensation Scheme or MOD claim.

What evidence do I need to support my claim?

You will need to provide your permission for us to contact you/your loved one’s treating hospital(s)/GP and employer to obtain medical records and medical military notes on your behalf.

How long will the claim take?

Timelines vary, but we’ll keep you updated every step of the way. Most cases take several months to a number of years depending on complexity and evidence required.

I served years ago - can I still make a claim?

Yes. As long as you used 3M earplugs during your service and are now experiencing hearing issues, you may still be eligible. Get in touch to check if you're within the time limits.

Will making a claim affect my military pension or benefits?

No, this claim is not being made against the MOD, it is made against 3M, the manufacturer of the hearing equipment.

I used earplugs but don’t know if they were 3M - can I still claim?

If you are unsure about whether you used 3M earplugs, we will provide you with additional information regarding the earplugs to help you determine whether you did use them or not.

What happens after I submit my claim form?

Once you submit your form, our team will assess your information, contact you for any extra details, and guide you through the next steps, including medical assessments if required.

Is this part of a group action or individual claim?

This claim will be part of a group action, as we will be acting on behalf of a large group of people affected by hearing loss because of a similar reason.

Court documents will be prepared on behalf of the entire group, but the court will in due course decide how the claim will be managed, which could include a number of claims being selected as ‘test claims’ so that important issues are determined quickly.

View full FAQs

Claimant Form

Step 1 of 4

Name

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Have you/your loved one been employed by the Armed Forces?(Required)

Were you or a loved one employed by the Armed Forces during 1999 or later?(Required)

Have you/your loved one been diagnosed with hearing loss or tinnitus?(Required)

Do you believe that you/your loved one may have hearing loss or tinnitus?(Required)

Have you/your loved one used 3M Combat Arms Version 2 earplugs?(Required)

Have you instructed another law firm to act on you/your loved one’s behalf in relation to a hearing loss claim? (Please Note: If you have an open claim against the MOD, you can still join this claim against 3M)(Required)

Is this claim about you or someone else?(Required)

Name of Loved One (First Name Field and Last Name field)(Required)

Representee First Name Representee Last Name

Is this person deceased?(Required)

Title(Required)

First Name(Required)

Last Name(Required)

Date of Birth(Required)

Claimant should be greater than 18 years old. Format (DD-MM-YYYY)

Address(Required)

Address Line 1 Address Line 2 City County Postcode Country

Mobile Number / Home Number?

Mobile Number

Home Number

Phone Number(Required)

Please enter a valid phone number.

Email Address(Required)

Enter Email Confirm Email

Please read the following in full before signing

Damages Based Agreement
Litigation Management Agreement
Client Care Letter

Read our 3M Guidance Note

Introduction

When someone wants to make a claim, they need to sign several legal documents. These documents set out the terms and conditions behind the claim and how the claim will be managed on your behalf by KP Law.

There are two documents you will need to read and sign. These documents may seem very onerous. That is not our intention. However, they do need to be written in a certain way that sets out the nature of the claim, that KP Law will be representing you and provide information on how the case will be funded and any costs you may incur.

As these documents are lengthy, we have summarised what they are for in this guidance note. We hope you find this helpful, and if you have any questions then please get in touch on 0333 038 241 and one of our legal experts will be happy to explain everything to you.

Our promise to you

When we take on your case, we guarantee you the following:

Your case will be run on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis
There are no fees if the case is unsuccessful
There are no upfront or hidden costs
Any costs are taken from your settlement
You have 14 days to change your mind from the date you sign these documents
Your case will be managed by an experienced legal team who are experts and committed to achieving the best outcome for you
KP Law is a regulated law firm – giving you added protection and peace of mind that you are in safe hands

Your Hearing Loss Claim

You are signing up to claim compensation from 3M, in respect of your use of Combat Arms Earplugs Version 2 (CAEv2 ) during your time with the armed services. We believe that the CAEv2, manufactured by 3M, were defective resulting in users suffering from hearing loss and/or tinnitus. Evidence suggests that the CAEv2 came into circulation in 1999 so anyone who served in the armed forces from 1st January 1999 onwards can join the claim. There is no guarantee that your claim will succeed, but we are optimistic that there is a strong case to be made against them.

No Win No Fee Guarantee

We will act on your behalf on what is often referred to as a “no win no fee” arrangement. The actual name for this is a damages-based agreement. This means that you don’t have to pay any money up front to pursue your claim. If we win, then our fees will be paid by you from the compensation paid by 3M and/or their parent companies/subsidiaries. Our success fee is 25% (inclusive of VAT) of any damages you receive for pain, suffering and loss of amenity, and financial loss other than future financial loss in accordance with Regulation 4 (2) of the Damages Based Agreements Regulations 2013 plus expenses.

If your claim is unsuccessful, you will not have to pay us anything. You may be charged if you breach our agreement, for example if you provide false/misleading information to us.

Full details of the agreement are set out in the legal document entitled ‘Damages Based Agreement’ which you will need to sign if we are to act on your behalf.

Litigation Management Agreement

This is an agreement between you and the other individuals in the group whereby, in appropriate situations, you agree that decisions will be made on your behalf by a client committee. This allows the committee to make group decisions without needing to consult every individual claimant which would be impractical in a group litigation of this nature. Your claim may in fact proceed individually or as part of a group, and we will provide you with guidance as to the most appropriate route forward in due course.

Right to Cancel

You have the right to cancel your agreement within 14 days of the date you sign the documents if you do not wish to proceed with a claim. Full details including how to cancel are set out in the legal documents.

Proposed Claim

We are in the process of gathering evidence in support of our claim. As soon as we are able, it is our intention to issue Court proceedings. As explained above, the court might make a Group Litigation Order (“GLO”) for Hearing Loss claims against 3M which is a method of collectively managing claims from individuals with similar claims arising in fact or law against the same opponent(s). Alternatively, the claims might proceed individually.

We will keep you updated as to our progress on the case and of any significant developments.

You agree we can sign a “Statement of Truth” for you on court documents

The information you give to us will be submitted to the Court with a “Statement of Truth” confirming to the Court that you believe it to be true. You could be in contempt of court if it turns out that you knew it wasn’t true. By joining this claim, you are agreeing that we can sign a “Statement of Truth” on your behalf based on the information you have given us during the case.

Any questions

We hope that this guidance note has been helpful. We do need you to sign both the Damages Based Agreement and the Litigation Management Agreement if you want KP Law to represent you in this claim. If you are unsure about anything, have any questions or simply would like some more information than please call us on 0333 038 241 or email us at info@kpl.co.uk.

In order to become a client of KP Law, you will need to accept the terms of our DBA by signing in the box below. Signed with an intention to enter into a legally binding contract(Required)

*Please note that the form submission may take up to a minute to process. Do not refresh the page during this time. We appreciate your patience in this regard.

Join our military hearing loss claim against earplug manufacturer 3M

Taking on 3M for UK Armed Forces and Veterans

JOIN WITH A CLEAN CONSCIENCE - WE’RE GOING AFTER 3M:

HELP SECURE JUSTICE - AND DEFEND OUR ARMED FORCES:

IT’S A SIMPLE PROCESS - WITH NO FEE IF UNSUCCESSFUL:

JOIN WITH A CLEAN CONSCIENCE - WE’RE GOING AFTER 3M:

HELP SECURE JUSTICE - AND DEFEND OUR ARMED FORCES:

IT’S A SIMPLE PROCESS - WITH NO FEE IF UNSUCCESSFUL:

Did you know?

Read more articles

How are KP Law helping others?

Why we're taking on 3M for UK veterans

JOIN WITH A CLEAN CONSCIENCE - WE’RE NOT GOING AFTER THE MOD:

HELP SECURE JUSTICE - AND DEFEND OUR ARMED FORCES:

IT’S A SIMPLE PROCESS - WITH NO FEE IF UNSUCCESSFUL:

Securing justice and defending our armed forces

Holding 3M to account - this claim isn't against the MOD

Nothing to lose - but you could stand to gain

Any level of hearing loss is accepted.

Yes, if you suspect you are suffering from hearing loss or tinnitus but have not received a diagnosis, you can still pursue a claim. We will arrange for you to undergo a hearing test to determine whether you are suffering from hearing loss or tinnitus.

Yes, you can. This claim is open to all those who served in the military and suffer with either hearing loss, or tinnitus.

Compensation for general damages will be assesed on the severity of your hearing loss and/or tinnitus. In addition to general damages, you may also be entitled to special damages which will be assessed on a case by case basis.

KP Law is a specialist law firm helping British service personnel claim compensation for hearing damage caused by faulty 3M earplugs. We’re experts in group litigation claims.

You can get in touch with KPLaw by Phone: 0161 710 3085 or Email: hearinglossclaim@kpl.co.uk

Yes, you may be able to persue both claims. Claims against 3M are entirely separate and do not affect your Armed Forces Compensation Scheme or MOD claim.

You will need to provide your permission for us to contact you/your loved one’s treating hospital(s)/GP and employer to obtain medical records and medical military notes on your behalf.

Timelines vary, but we’ll keep you updated every step of the way. Most cases take several months to a number of years depending on complexity and evidence required.

Yes. As long as you used 3M earplugs during your service and are now experiencing hearing issues, you may still be eligible. Get in touch to check if you're within the time limits.

No, this claim is not being made against the MOD, it is made against 3M, the manufacturer of the hearing equipment.

If you are unsure about whether you used 3M earplugs, we will provide you with additional information regarding the earplugs to help you determine whether you did use them or not.

Once you submit your form, our team will assess your information, contact you for any extra details, and guide you through the next steps, including medical assessments if required.

Claimant Form

Introduction

Our promise to you

Your Hearing Loss Claim

No Win No Fee Guarantee

Litigation Management Agreement

Right to Cancel

Proposed Claim

You agree we can sign a “Statement of Truth” for you on court documents

Any questions

Holding 3M to account -
this claim isn't against the MOD

Nothing to lose -
but you could stand to gain