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Firefighters sue over excessive noise from sirens
The Buffalo News recently published an article discussing a growing legal battle involving firefighters who are suing over the damaging effects of emergency sirens. For many, the loud, piercing sound of a fire engine siren is one of the most defining aspects of their job. But could this very sound be harming the hearing of those who respond to emergencies every day?
Over 190 firefighters from Buffalo have taken legal action, claiming that the sirens used in fire trucks have caused them hearing damage. This lawsuit follows similar cases filed by firefighters in cities like Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and Chicago, where plaintiffs argue that the manufacturers of these sirens were aware—or should have been aware—of the potential harm they posed.
Currently, 20 lawsuits are being heard in federal court in Buffalo. The cases, originally filed in state court in September, were moved to federal jurisdiction by the six defendants involved. Anthony J. Colucci III, representing one of the defendants, Pierce Manufacturing, stated that all parties deserve a fair judicial process.
This isn’t the first time firefighters have pursued legal action over hearing loss. In early 2011, Federal Signal Corp., a major manufacturer of fire engine sirens, reached a settlement with 1,125 firefighters. The company offered $3.8 million, averaging around $3,380 per firefighter. While the lawyer for the plaintiffs called it a “satisfactory resolution,†the company maintained that its products are essential for public safety and defended its position in court.
Another defendant in the Buffalo case, Bern, claims that the firefighters were exposed to excessive noise due to poor design in the truck compartments, which lacked proper sound insulation. He argues that this environment contributed significantly to their hearing damage.
The issue of noise-induced hearing loss among firefighters has been recognized for decades. In 1992, U.S. Fire Administrator Olin L. Greene described noise as “the most underrated health hazard†for emergency responders. A 2007 study from the University of California found that nearly 40% of firefighters are at risk of noise-related hearing loss. The research also revealed that only about a third of firefighters consistently use ear protection, despite the known risks.
Other defendants in the current lawsuits include American LaFrance, Kovatch Mobile Equipment, Seagrave Fire Apparatus, and Mack Trucks—all based in Pennsylvania. As the legal battle continues, it raises important questions about workplace safety, product responsibility, and the long-term health impacts of a profession that relies on loud, life-saving tools.