3M is edging closer to finalizing a $5.5 billion settlement after military veterans claimed to have suffered hearing damage after using the company’s defective earplugs. Nearly 260,000 lawsuits by U.S. military service members and veterans allege that the earplugs manufactured by 3M failed to safeguard them against hearing loss.
As it stands, the proposed agreement entails a payment of roughly $5.5 billion from 3M.
This legal saga, revolving around the efficacy of the earplugs, stands as the largest mass tort in the history of the United States.
Developed by Aearo Technologies, the earplugs were designed to provide protection against explosive sounds and loud noises, while allowing for the audibility of softer sounds and voices. But, a staggering 300,000 claims have been submitted, with military veterans asserting that 3M and Aearo Technologies produced faulty earplugs that inadequately shielded their hearing from noise-related damage during their service in the U.S. military.
Learn the benefits of becoming a Valuetainment Member and subscribe today!
While 3M continues to contest these claims, the company maintains that the earplugs are effective when used in conjunction with proper training. The proposed settlement figure notably falls below the predictions of some analysts who estimated a potential cost to the company ranging from $10 billion to $15 billion. The resolution, which hinges on approval from 3M’s board, remains pending.
3M faced a similar lawsuit in 2018 where it agreed to a $9.1 million settlement with the U.S. government related to defective earplugs. The contention was that these earplugs could subtly become dislodged within a person’s ear, a stance countered by 3M, which argued their effectiveness when used as instructed.
In June, 3M was confronted with a preliminary settlement related to litigation concerning “forever chemicals” in municipal drinking water which could potentially amount to as much as $12.5 billion spread over a five-year period.
Add comment