Combat Ear Plug Lawsuit

The 3M Earplug lawsuit claims that 3M knowingly sold the military defective earplugs between 2003 and 2015. The earplugs were ineffective because they lacked the ability to hold tight within a user’s ears

We are currently and actively reviewing cases and seeking compensation for individuals that served in the military, have experienced hearing loss or tinnitus and were issued the Combat Arms Earplugs Version 2 (CAEv2).

What We Know About the 3M Military Earplug Lawsuits

The U.S. Department of Justice announced that 3M had agreed to pay $9.1 million in order to settle a False Claims Act suit that accused 3M of knowingly selling defective earplugs to the United States Military.

The settlement was filed in South Carolina Federal Court and alleges that 3M as well as its predecessor, Aearo Technologies, Inc. sold their Combat Arms Earplugs to the military while knowing they were too short to be properly secured in a user’s ears.

The defective, dual-ended earplugs are able to be used as a traditional earplug or flipped into an open position to reduce loud sounds such as an explosion while letting in quieter noised allowing communication. However, these plugs would loosen after insertion and failed to properly reduce loud noises.

The Department of Justice alleges Aearo Technologies & 3M employees knew of the design flaw as early as 2002 after completing testing of the plugs.

3Ms CAEv2 earplugs were standard issue between 2002 & 20015 and were the only option for enlisted service members.

If you or a loved one were in the military between 2002 & 20015 and have experienced hearing loss, you may be entitled to compensation. Please fill out the form below.