Hearing Loss from Work

Some jobs can cause hearing loss, referred to as “occupational hearing loss.” This term specifically refers to hearing impairment and damage to the auditory system due to exposure to hazardous noise levels in the workplace. Over time, these dangerous noise levels can lead to temporary impairments of hearing and permanent hearing loss.

Just a few examples of occupations where extreme noise is a possibility include:

• Construction and manufacturing
• Transportation, such as railway or aviation
• Entertainment
• Military and law enforcement.
• Agriculture

Employers in these industries have a special responsibility to implement hearing conservation programs. These programs include access to or mandatory use of ear-protection devices, engineering controls that reduce noise levels, hearing tests to track hearing loss over time, and education on occupational hearing loss.

The average compensation for work-related hearing loss can vary, depending on several factors, including the jurisdiction or location of the job, severity of the hearing loss, a person’s occupation, and other details of the case. Compensation amounts are typically determined through legal processes involving negotiations, settlements, and court judgments.

To get an idea of the compensation for your situation, consult an attorney specializing in workers’ compensation or employment law in the area where your job is located. A legal expert is the best person to provide tailored advice based on the case’s specific circumstances.

The eligibility for total disability benefits for hearing loss depends on various factors, including the severity of the hearing loss, how the hearing loss affects your ability to work, and the specific criteria of the workers’ compensation laws that apply to your area. Individuals with profound hearing loss or deafness may be eligible for disability benefits if their condition significantly restricts their ability to work and engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). SGA refers to the ability to perform work that earns a certain amount of income, as determined by the local or state disability program.

Typically, verification of total hearing loss requires medical documentation, such as the results of audiological tests, which measure the severity of the hearing loss. Other factors that could be considered include a person’s work history, education, and ability to find another job.

Suppose your hearing loss significantly affects a person’s ability to work, perform daily activities, communicate effectively, or lead an everyday life consistent with the one that was held before suffering from hearing loss. In that case, it may be considered a disability according to state workers’ compensation laws. However, it still depends on various factors, including the severity of the hearing loss and the individual’s communication needs.

In the United States, the legal definition of disability is provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). According to the ADA, an individual with a disability is “someone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, including hearing.” However, the nature of a condition defined as a disability is complicated. An attorney experienced in disability and workers’ compensation law is the best one to help with the process.