Missouri Workers Compensation Hearing Loss

When you picture an injury at work, you probably imagine something very gruesome. That could be getting your hand caught in machinery, hitting your head, or any other type of incident that leads to severe injury. However, one that is less talked about, but is incredibly common, is hearing loss. Many workers are exposed to very loud machinery. This high level of sound can cause hearing loss and have serious adverse effects on lifestyle. If you believe you have already experienced hearing loss from work, it is a good idea to speak with a work injury attorney to learn what your options are.

Common Causes

Hearing loss occurs when you experience excessively loud noises, especially if you are affected by them day after day. The industries that have a higher risk than others are those that deal with heavy machinery. Some typical examples are manufacturing, mining, agriculture, and mining. If you work in one of these industries, the best way forward is to understand hearing loss and how to protect against it.

Consequences

The consequences of hearing loss are not as evident as a severe injury but can be just as frustrating. When your hearing worsens, every part of your life is affected. You will be less alert at work, have more miscommunications with your loved ones, and be frustrated at public events. You don’t know how precious your hearing is until it's gone. Hopefully, you never find out.

Prevention

The best way to protect your ears is with avoidance and earplugs. If there is a piece of machinery that is especially loud at your work, you should try getting moved to a different part of the facility. That being said, you sometimes can’t get away. In this case, hearing protection will be vital. You can browse various options for earplugs online or at a local store and get the ones that are right for you.

Legal Implications

The easiest workers’ compensation cases are characterized by obvious injuries. While hearing loss is more subtle, it can still be used to obtain assistance. The physical damage done to your ears might require a medical procedure or various forms of therapy to manage, which can get very expensive. If you can prove that your hearing loss has compromised your ability to work and live, you could be entitled to compensation.

Your hearing is one of those things that you may take for granted until it is taken away from you. Even if you lose just some of your hearing, and not all, your lifestyle will still change dramatically. You will be less aware at both work and in your personal life. If you work in a dangerous industry, you should take steps to protect yourself. If you have already been a victim of hearing loss, it is worth talking to a workers comp attorney to learn more about your legal options.

Law Office of James M. Hoffmann

2001 S Hanley Rd #325

St. Louis, MO

63144

Phone: (314) 361-4300