When you live and work in Pennsylvania, you expect to be safe. Of course, workplace injuries still happen often enough. Hearing loss has become more common in certain industries. This can have devastating effects on people in their daily lives.
What can cause a hearing loss on the job?
Hearing loss is a common injury which can occur to workers while they’re on the job. While many people have some type of hearing loss, much of it isn’t related to their profession. However, individuals who work in industries like manufacturing, mining, construction, and public transportation can suffer work-related hearing loss. Often, it’s related to continuous exposure to loud noises, but even working with certain chemicals can result in hearing loss.
Whether or not the employer fails to issue protective gear to workers to preserve their hearing, if a worker suffers hearing loss, he or she can file a workers’ compensation claim.
What can be done to prevent hearing loss at work?
Any noise level over 85 decibels is considered dangerous. If the noise in the workplace is loud enough that it requires people to shout to communicate, it means the environment is dangerously loud. Anyone who experiences hearing loss due to the conditions at work can file for workers’ compensation benefits. However, certain things can be done to prevent workplace hearing loss, including the following:
- Get equipment that’s quieter, maintained properly, and well-lubricated.
- Enclose the area with the loud noise.
- Increase the distance between the source of the noise and the workers.
- Use earplugs to protect your hearing. Foam earplugs should be properly inserted into the ears.
- Test hearing protection to ensure that it’s appropriate and fits each employee.
- Music should be kept at a safe noise level and in quieter areas.
- Use non-toxic chemicals.
- Wear protective clothing, including goggles, gloves, and long sleeves.
- Wear a respirator and other equipment to protect yourself.
- Carefully follow all safety precautions.
Workers’ compensation in Pennsylvania pays a “specific loss” benefit depending on the amount of hearing loss sustained, plus benefits to cover reasonable, necessary, and related medical expenses, including hearing aids. Anyone with a suspected work-related hearing loss should contact a certified specialist workers’ comp attorney. People should not have to suffer hearing loss while performing their professional duties. Staying safe at work can preserve your hearing and maintain your quality of life.