Work-related hearing loss can be caused by acoustic or noise trauma. This type of inner ear damage can be caused by an exposure to an extremely loud and sudden noise, such as an explosion. More often, hearing is gradually diminished by repeated exposure to loud sounds over a period of time. When work-related hearing loss occurs more gradually, after prolonged exposure to certain types of noise, you may not even realize that you have lost hearing until symptoms become severe.

Warning Signs your Workplace may be too Loud

Some of the warning signs that your workplace is affecting your hearing may be that you hear ringing or humming in your ears when you leave work, you have to shout to communicate to a co- worker just an arm’s length away, or you experience temporary hearing loss when leaving work.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), noise related hearing loss has been listed as one of the top prevalent on the job health concerns in our country for more than 25 years. OSHA limits the amount noise exposure over an 8-hour day. For more information about appropriate standards for noise in your workplace: Click Here.

Help with your Workplace Hearing Loss Claim

If you have suffered permanent hearing loss as the result of a workplace accident or through prolonged exposure to hazardous substances or loud working conditions, you may be able to receive benefits under North Carolina workers’ compensation law. We can help you understand your rights, answer your questions and explain your legal options. Contact the law firm of Hemmings & Stevens, PLLC for a free consultation.

This article regarding hearing loss in North Carolina workers’ compensation claims is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. You may need to seek the advice of a workers’ compensation lawyer at the law firm of Hemmings & Stevens, PLLC that has experience with workers’ comp cases.