Hearing loss isn’t always caused by aging. About 22 million workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels every day. [1] In fact, occupational hearing loss, particularly noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), is among the most common work-related illnesses.
If your hearing loss is related to a work environment, you may be eligible for insurance coverage, workers’ compensation, or other financial support.
Among all workers in U.S. industries, here are some quick facts regarding hearing damage at work:
The bottom line: Hearing loss in the workplace is not as uncommon as some may think.
Work-related hearing loss occurs when workers are exposed to loud noises or certain chemicals during working hours. Prolonged exposure to sounds over 85 decibels (like machinery or power tools) can cause permanent damage to the inner ear. Unfortunately, this damage is often gradual, going unnoticed until it interferes with everyday life.
Jobs that cause hearing loss can include:
Most health insurance plans offer some form of coverage for hearing assessments and devices, but the scope and limits vary. If your hearing loss is job-related, you may also be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, which can include:
You’ll need to document your condition and consult a hearing care professional for a formal diagnosis and documentation hat supports any insurance or compensation claims.
If you’d like to apply for worker’s compensation for hearing loss, the first step is a thorough hearing evaluation by a licensed specialist. If it is determined that you have a hearing loss that is work related, you'll typically need to file a claim with your employer or their insurance provider. Laws and coverage vary by state, so act quickly and follow the correct process to avoid delays.
When filing a claim for hearing damage at work, you will need to provide the following:
Visit the US Department of Labor to get started on this process.
Hearing health isn't just a medical issue; it’s a quality-of-life issue. Our national network of hearing care professionals is experienced in evaluating occupational hearing loss and helping patients understand their insurance options. We offer:
● Comprehensive hearing evaluations
● Assistance in navigating the insurance and workers' comp processes
● Personalized hearing solutions with access to the latest technology
Ongoing support, maintenance, and counseling to make hearing aids work for you
Request an appointment at a hearing care provider near you.
Sources
[1] National Library of Medicine. “Cardiovascular conditions, hearing difficulty, and occupational noise exposure within US industries and occupations”. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29537072/
[2] CDC. “Noise and Hearing Loss: Overall Statistics- All US Industries”. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/noise/surveillance/overall.html
[3] CDC. “Noise and Hearing Loss: Overall Statistics- All US Industries”. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/noise/surveillance/overall.html
[4] CDC. “Noise and Hearing Loss: Overall Statistics- All US Industries”. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/noise/surveillance/overall.html
[5] CDC. “Noise and Hearing Loss: Overall Statistics- All US Industries”. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/noise/surveillance/overall.html
[6] US Department of Labor. “Evidence Required in Support of a Claim for Work-Related Hearing Loss.” Retrieved from https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/owcp/regs/compliance/ca-35.pdf
