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Workers’ compensation for hearing loss

On Behalf of | May 15, 2023 | Workers' Compensation, Workplace injuries

In New York, employees are entitled to file a claim for workers’ compensation if they are injured or become ill due to their work environment. Workers can be injured by falls, heavy equipment or exposure to hazardous chemicals.

They may not realize, however, that hearing loss may also make them eligible for workers’ compensation.

Hearing loss

If a worker’s hearing loss is related to their job duties, it may be covered under workers’ compensation.

Hearing loss can happen in the workplace if a worker is exposed to prolonged loud noises. This can cause gradual hearing loss. Sudden exposure to loud noises can cause immediate hearing damage. Exposure to certain chemicals, head injuries and infections may also lead to hearing loss.

The employer may be required to demonstrate that they took reasonable measures to protect their employees’ hearing like providing protection and having employees undergo regular hearing screenings.

Filing a claim

Before filing a claim, there are several elements the worker must meet. They must be an employee and their injury or illness must have occurred while they were performing their job.

Their injury or illness must be related to their job duties, including those that happen immediately or over time. The employee must also notify their employer of their injury or illness within 30 days of the incident.

The worker can file a claim and it must include medical documentation to support the claim. It should detail the nature and extent of the injury or illness and any relevant treatment. Finally, the worker must not have intentionally caused their illness or injury.

Workers’ compensation may include medical benefits, wage replacement, disability benefits and rehabilitation services.

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