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Hearing loss in the workplace and your right to compensation

On Behalf of | Nov 7, 2017 | Workplace Injuries

Ohio workers know that when they suffer an injury in the workplace they have the right to seek compensation through their employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. However, this right also applies to those who suffer injuries and damage from their work over a long period of time. An example of this is work-related hearing loss.

If you experienced hearing loss, either partial or total, as the result of the conditions of your job, you would be eligible for certain types of financial benefits. You would be wise to take quick action to protect your interests, which may include submitting a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. You do not have to endure hearing loss on your own.

A bigger problem than you may think

Work-related hearing loss is actually more common than you may think. Consider the following facts and statistics about this issue:

  • 22 million workers face exposure to dangerous levels of noise on the job every year.
  • No industry is immune to hearing risks; workers in every type of job can experience hearing loss.
  • Every year, approximately 10 million workers come into contact with solvents and chemicals that can damage hearing.

Hearing impairment does not necessarily mean that a worker is deaf, but as many as 19 percent of people who work in loud and noisy environments experience hearing impairment. According to the CDC, hearing impairment is loss of hearing ability to the degree that it affects day-to-day activities. This includes a person’s job.

Fighting hearing loss

Naturally, some positions carry a higher risk of hearing loss for workers due to the nature of the job. The mining, construction and industrial sectors usually have a higher percentage of workers impacted by hearing impairment. Employees should have access to proper safety equipment, which can include protective gear for the ears.

Hearing loss is likely to be permanent. It is crucial for employers to do everything possible to protect the hearing of employees, including providing the right tools or training and limited noise exposure whenever possible.

Hearing loss is not a loss of your rights 

You may feel overwhelmed by what you are experiencing, but you have options and you do not have to explore them alone. One of your first steps can be to reach out for help regarding your rightful workers’ compensation benefits claim. With the right support and a full understand of your entitlements, you may be able get the financial help you need after experienced work-related hearing loss.