Depending on where you work and what your job requirements are, it is possible you could be facing certain physical risks when you show up on the job. Occupational hearing loss is a real possibility for some workers, and it is beneficial for you to know if you are at risk. It is also helpful to know what you can do to protect both your physical well-being and financial stability.
Occupational hearing loss occurs when a person’s job environment is loud or exposes a person to certain vibrations to the extent that it affects his or her hearing. Hearing loss can be temporary or permanent, and it can affect your ability to work and earn a living. Workers who experience this could have grounds to seek benefits though workers’ compensation.
Will hearing loss affect you?
As a California worker, you are aware that certain types of employees are at a higher risk of experiencing occupational hearing loss than others. Some of those who stand an increased chance of experiencing hearing problems related to their jobs include the following:
- Those who work at airports, particularly ground maintenance
- People who work in construction, especially those who work with power tools
- Farmers who work with certain types of equipment and machines
- People who work with loud machinery or work in places with loud music
- Some military jobs that require combat, airplane noise and more
Hearing loss is a direct result of repeated exposure to sounds vibrations over time. There is equipment available to protect workers who deal with sound exposure as part of their job, and if you are at risk, you should receive training on how to use it properly. Employers are responsible for ensuring that workers who are at risk know how to use hearing protection and have the right type of equipment available to help them avoid problems.
Your right as an injured worker
If you experienced hearing loss as a result of your job, you could have a rightful claim to financial support and payments through workers’ compensation. It is beneficial to start with a complete evaluation of your case in order to understand how to initiate a claim.
You may be entitled to support that includes coverage of lost wages, medical care and even help finding a new job, if necessary. If you are at risk or you already experienced hearing loss, it can be prudent to work with an attorney familiar with the workers’ compensation claims process.