Hearing Loss from Workplace Noise: Can You Get Workers’ Comp?

How Workplace Noise Leads to Hearing Loss

Prolonged exposure to high-decibel noise levels can permanently damage the sensitive hair cells in the inner ear (cochlea), leading to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). This damage is irreversible and can worsen over time if the exposure continues.

Common Workplace Sources of Hearing Loss:

• Machinery & Equipment – Factories, construction sites, and manufacturing plants often have loud drills, saws, presses, and engines.
• Power Tools – Jackhammers, chainsaws, and grinders exceed 85 decibels (dB), the threshold where prolonged exposure can cause hearing damage.
• Aircraft & Traffic Noise – Aircraft, trucking, and roadwork workers are exposed to dangerously high noise levels.
• Music & Entertainment Industry – Musicians, DJs, and sound engineers often work in environments with sound levels exceeding 100 dB.
• Explosions & Gunfire – Police officers, military personnel, and construction workers dealing with blasting operations are at risk for sudden hearing trauma.

How Loud Is Too Loud?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets workplace noise exposure limits: (OSHA noise exposure limits: OSHA.gov)

• 85 dB over 8 hours → Hearing protection required
• 100 dB over 2 hours → Hearing damage likely
• 110 dB over 30 minutes → Immediate risk of hearing loss
• 140 dB+ (gunfire, explosions) → Instant permanent damage

Types of Hearing Loss Covered:

• Occupational Hearing Loss – Gradual hearing loss from repeated exposure to loud noise at work.
• Acoustic Trauma – Sudden hearing loss from a single loud event (e.g., explosion, gunfire, or machinery malfunction).
• Tinnitus – Ringing or buzzing in the ears caused by workplace noise exposure.
• Hearing Damage from Chemicals – Certain workplace chemicals (solvents, lead, and mercury) can contribute to hearing loss.

Under Missouri workers’ comp laws, employees do not have to prove employer negligence—only that their hearing loss is job-related. (Missouri Workers’ Comp: Labor.MO.gov)

What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Can You Receive?

If your hearing loss is work-related, you may be eligible for: (Missouri Workers’ Comp Benefits: Labor.MO.gov)

• Medical Coverage – Workers’ comp should cover hearing tests, audiology evaluations, and treatment.
• Hearing Aids & Assistive Devices – If hearing aids are prescribed, they should be fully covered.
• Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits – If your hearing loss prevents you from working while receiving treatment, you may receive partial wage replacement.
• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits – If hearing loss is permanent, you may qualify for a settlement or ongoing disability payments.
• Job Retraining & Vocational Rehabilitation – If your job requires normal hearing, you may be eligible for vocational assistance.

Common Reasons Workers’ Comp Claims for Hearing Loss Get Denied

• Employer Disputes Work-Related Cause – They argue the hearing loss is due to aging or pre-existing conditions.
• Lack of Medical Evidence – No audiology reports confirming occupational hearing loss.
• Late Reporting – Workers waited months or years to report symptoms.
• Insurance Company Denial – Insurers claim the hearing loss is not severe enough for benefits.

If your claim is denied, you still have options! An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can help appeal the decision and fight for maximum compensation. (Workers’ Comp Appeals: Labor.MO.gov)

Protect Your Hearing & Your Rights

Hearing loss can permanently impact your quality of life—but if it was caused by workplace noise, you shouldn’t have to pay for treatment out of pocket. If you believe your hearing loss is work-related, act quickly:

• Report it to your employer
• Get a professional hearing exam
• File a workers’ comp claim
• Consult an attorney if your claim is denied