Work-Related Hearing Loss and Workers' Compensation in California 

 Posted on January 12, 2023 in Workers' Compensation

If you work in a noisy environment, you may be exposed to loud sounds, vibrations, or chemicals that can all contribute to hearing loss. In some occupations, the risk of hearing loss is particularly high. For example, construction workers and factory workers are often exposed to loud noise while they are on the job. If you suffer from hearing loss caused by your job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Read on to find out more about hearing loss and workers’ compensation for those who live and work in California.

What Occupations Put Employees at Risk for Hearing Loss?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set standards for workplace noise exposure that employers must adhere to. These standards are intended to help prevent hearing loss for employees, protect employees’ remaining hearing, and provide hearing protection equipment for those who work in loud environments.

Common worksites with the highest levels of noise include factories and manufacturing facilities, construction sites, airports, and military installations. Specific jobs that put employees at risk of hearing loss include but are not limited to:

• Carpenters

• Plumbers

• Electricians

• Machinists

• Welders

• Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural workers

• Airport tarmac personnel

• Musicians, sound technicians, and DJs

Can I Collect Workers' Compensation Benefits for Hearing Loss?

If your hearing loss is directly related to a workplace hazard or injury sustained while on the job in California, then yes, you may be able to collect workers’ compensation benefits. As you might expect, your eligibility will depend on the specifics of your case. If you are eligible, your benefits could cover any medical expenses associated with treating your condition, possibly including hearing assistive devices such as hearing aids or cochlear implants. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages due to missed time at work or decreased earning capacity resulting from your injury.  

It is important to understand that there are time limits for filing a claim, so it is important that you contact an attorney who is experienced in workers’ compensation law as soon as possible after developing hearing loss due to a workplace hazard or injury. A skilled attorney can help guide you through the process of filing a claim and provide legal advice regarding any potential defense strategies or challenges from your employer or their insurance provider.

Contact a Santa Clara County Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Hearing loss can have serious life-altering repercussions both professionally and personally if it is not addressed quickly and appropriately. If you have suffered from severe hearing loss due to a workplace hazard or injury in California, it is important that you seek legal counsel right away. Contact an experienced Gilroy workers’ compensation benefits lawyer at Cramer + Martinez to get the help you need. Call 408-848-1113 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.osha.gov/noise

https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/53178-Workers-comp-hearing-loss-tinnitus