It’s easy to overlook the long-term effects of a noisy work environment in today’s fast-paced and digital world. But industrial deafness is a condition that affects Australians employed in a wide variety of industries and jobs.
What is industrial deafness?
Industrial deafness, sometimes also referred to as industrial hearing loss or occupational hearing loss, is a form of hearing loss that may occurs as a result of exposure to high levels of sound within the workplace. The condition may present itself in several ways, including temporary hearing loss, permanent hearing loss and tinnitus.
Industrial deafness may affect those working in a variety of industries, but some jobs and industries can pose a higher risk than others such as:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Mining
- Agriculture
- Transport, including truck drivers
- Music and events
What counts as hearing loss?
When hearing loss is measured, it will be described as mild, moderate, severe, profound or a combination of:
- Mild hearing loss (21–40dB)
- Moderate hearing loss (41-70dB)
- Severe hearing loss (71 - 90dB)
- Profound hearing loss (91dB+)
What causes industrial deafness?
Industrial deafness primarily develops in one of two ways: from working in a noisy environment for a prolonged period of time without adequate hearing protection or following acoustic trauma, caused by a one-off exposure to extremely high levels of noise.
Symptoms of industrial deafness
The symptoms of industrial deafness may vary from person to person. Still, some of the most common signs reported may present at:
- Temporary or permanently reduced hearing in one or both ears
- Difficulty understanding speech in settings with high levels of background noise
- A constant ringing, whistling, hissing or buzzing in one or both ears
- Difficulty hearing the radio or television
- Missing portions of conversations despite paying attention
Entitlements
Your entitlements depend on your specific circumstances, but in most instances, you may be eligible to claim assistance for:
- Loss of income, or future earnings
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Paid assistance in some circumstances
- Return to work services
- Travelling expenses
- Permanent impairment compensation
FAQs
Every claim is different, but generally speaking strict time limits apply for starting your claim. You should lodge a claim within 30 days of noticing your hearing loss.
The time frame to resolve your claim may depend on:
- How complicated your circumstances are
- How serious your injuries are and
- The treatment you need to restore your health
Every Workers Compensation case is different and there are a number of steps you'll generally go through during the process. Your lawyer will guide you through these stages to help you get the best possible outcome. Learn more about the process.
Whilst all levels of hearing loss are permeant you can treat loss of hearing with hearing-aid devices, which could be included in your claim.
Check if you're eligible for a Workers’ Compensation claim
Find out if your injury or illness is eligible to make a Workers’ Compensation claim. Your online check only takes 3 minutes.