Veterans across the country have joined the fight against American multinational conglomerate corporation 3M to seek justice for the hearing damage caused by defective combat earplugs manufactured and sold by the company.
The claim is that the earplugs were designed at a fault as they appear to be too short to create an airtight seal in the user’s ear. This flaw allows impactful sound waves to travel through the loose earplug, causing damage to the highly sensitive inner ear. Many veterans have reported hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and loss of balance after using 3M’s Dual-End Combat Arms Earplugs.
These particular earplugs are designed with duality in mind: they can be used as traditional earplugs that block out all sound or “flipped open”to a position that prevents an intense impulse of sound but allows for quieter noises, like speech. Understandably so, it is imperative that flawless product design is in play to avoid exposure to destructive sounds.
Lies that Led to Loss
In July 2018, 3M agreed to pay $9.1 million to settle a dispute made under the False Claims Act, accusing the company of knowingly selling its earplugs without disclosing the defects. According to the claim, Aearo was aware of the defect from as early as 2000. Testing conducted by 3M revealed the earplugs to be defective, however, those results were consciously hidden and safety certifications were forged. In 2015, 3M discontinued these earplugs, yet never recalled the product. It is likely that these defective earplugs are still in use today.
Due to patent infringement litigation implemented in 2012, 3M’s combat ear protection monopolized the market. These defective earplugs were the only choice for military professionals.
The company’s deceit and gross negligence have negatively impacted the lives of thousands of veterans and their families. These damages are extensive, yet were easily avoidable if provided ample protection.
