Question: I work at a gas pipeline job in Susquehanna County. It’s very noisy in the pump house because of all the machinery. Last winter, I worked in the pump house for 3 straight months. After I’d leave work, I noticed ringing in my ears. I’ve noticed that I’m now having trouble hearing. Is this something that would fall under workers compensation?
Answer: If you suffer a loss of hearing as a result of exposure to noise in the workplace, you may be entitled to workers compensation benefits. Under the Pennsylvania Workers Compensation Act, compensation may be awarded for permanent loss of hearing which is established by expert medical proof to be caused by long term exposure to hazardous occupational noise in the workplace. The percentage of hearing loss is determined by utilizing the level of impairment in both ears using the AMA Guidelines to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment.
If you’ve experienced exposure to loud noise in the workplace or have suffered a work injury and have questions about your claim, contact me at tcummings@dlplaw.com or call (570) 347-1011 for a free consultation.
