Is Hearing Loss Covered by Florida Workers’ Compensation?

Unfortunately, many workers across various industries are subject to unsafe noise levels while working. As such, many workers develop issues with their hearing, including a full loss of the sense. Due to the fact that this injury often occurs gradually, many workers are unaware of their right to pursue compensation for the damages they’ve endured. If your hearing has been damaged due to conditions at work, it’s in your best interest to keep reading and connect with a Florida workers’ compensation attorney. The following blog explores how workers may experience hearing loss and the steps you should take to recover the justice you deserve.

How Does Hearing Loss Happen at Work?

Unfortunately, occupational hearing loss can occur through a number of incidents. In some instances, workers who are subjected to hazardous noise levels, such as those produced by heavy machinery or equipment, may find that the constant sounds can result in nerve damage to the ears, leading to hearing issues.

You’ll find that you may also endure damage to your hearing if a single loud noise happens at work, such as an explosion. While sounds at 85 decibels or above can cause hearing issues over a prolonged period of time, a single loud noise exceeding 140 decibels can result in immediate damage.

In some instances, hearing loss may be caused by exposure to harmful chemicals rather than prolonged hazardous levels of noise. For example, certain salicylates, solvents, metals, and pesticides can cause damage to your ears when they enter the bloodstream, whether they are inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or injected. As such, the hair cells that help you hear can become damaged, while also impacting the auditory nerve pathways, resulting in damage to your hearing.

Can I Seek Compensation Through a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

It’s imperative to understand that any injuries to your senses, including a loss of hearing, allow you to seek compensation. This is because this is considered a work injury, provided that you are subjected to these sounds at your place of work.

Generally, to file a workers’ compensation claim for an injury sustained on the job, you’ll find that you must report your injury to your employer within 30 days. However, many instances of hearing loss are gradual, meaning they develop over time. As such, you may not be able to point to a single occurrence that ultimately resulted in your hearing loss. That is why you are eligible to inform your employer within 30 days of receiving an audiogram that confirms your hearing loss.

When your hearing is damaged due to the conditions you are subjected to at work, it’s imperative to understand that you have the right to seek compensation. However, filing a workers’ compensation claim can be incredibly difficult, which is why it’s in your best interest to contact an experienced attorney with the Law Firm of Kevin A. Moore. Our team understands how overwhelming these matters can be, which is why we are committed to assisting you through these complicated issues. Contact us today to learn how we can represent you.