Hearing Loss from Working in a Machine Shop or Manufacturing: Understanding Your Rights in Wisconsin

Workers in machine shops and manufacturing are vital to the sectors that keep America functioning. However, because of the loud gear that is frequently present in these settings, extended exposure can cause irreversible hearing loss. While ear protection is frequently offered, the risk is not always eliminated.

The Effects of Manufacturing and Machine Shop Work on Hearing

Long-term exposure to loud noises is the primary cause of hearing loss in machine shops and manufacturing facilities. Workers in these environments are constantly subjected to high-decibel sounds from various sources, gradually leading to hearing impairment over time.

Equipment such as hydraulic presses, CNC machines, lathes, and milling machines operate at high decibel levels. These machines frequently run continuously throughout the workday, generating an unrelenting barrage of noise that slowly deteriorates the auditory system of workers. Metal stamping and welding also play a role in occupational hearing damage producing sharp, sudden bursts of noise that can be particularly harmful to hearing, while welding creates high-frequency sounds that may contribute to auditory strain over prolonged exposure.

Power tools, including drills, grinders, saws, and impact wrenches, generate noise levels well above the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) threshold of 85 decibels. Employees who regularly use these tools without adequate breaks or hearing protection are at a heightened risk of developing noise-induced hearing loss. Also, compressed air systems, which are commonly used for cleaning, drying, and powering various tools, frequently exceed 90 decibels. Because these systems are often used in combination with other noisy machinery, they significantly increase overall noise exposure in manufacturing settings.

Even with the use of hearing protection, long-term exposure to these various noise sources can lead to irreversible hearing damage. Many workers do not recognize the early signs of hearing impairment until the condition becomes severe. This is why regular hearing examinations are crucial in factory settings, as they can help detect hearing loss before it progresses to a debilitating level.

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Symptoms and Indications of Hearing Loss at Work

Occupational noise exposure typically leads to gradual hearing loss, making it difficult to identify until the impairment has already become significant. Many workers may not realize they are experiencing hearing issues until they begin to struggle with everyday communication which is one of the most common signs of noise-induced hearing loss. Employees may frequently ask others to repeat themselves, particularly in noisy environments where background sounds interfere with speech recognition.

Another early symptom is tinnitus, which manifests as a persistent ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ears. This condition can be both irritating and distracting, often signaling the onset of hearing damage.

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A growing need to increase the volume of electronic devices such as radios, televisions, and mobile phones may also indicate hearing loss. People experiencing auditory decline may find that they require louder sound levels to hear clearly.

Hearing loss can also make it difficult to distinguish between similar-sounding words. For instance, words like “cat” and “bat” may sound alike, causing misunderstandings during conversations. This issue can be particularly frustrating in workplace settings where clear communication is essential for safety and efficiency. Some individuals may experience a sensation of muffled or distorted hearing, where sounds seem distant or unclear. This can create additional challenges in both personal and professional interactions, as individuals struggle to fully comprehend speech or environmental sounds.

These symptoms not only impact a worker’s ability to perform their job effectively but can also affect their quality of life outside of work. If left unaddressed, noise-induced hearing loss can progressively worsen over time, leading to permanent damage. Seeking a medical assessment at the first sign of hearing difficulties is essential. Early intervention can help slow further deterioration and may also serve as crucial documentation for workers’ compensation claims related to occupational hearing loss.

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Wisconsin Workers’ Compensation for Hearing Loss

The purpose of Wisconsin’s workers’ compensation laws is to safeguard workers who sustain illnesses or injuries related to their jobs, including hearing loss. You can be eligible for benefits that cover the following if you experience hearing damage as a result of exposure to high noise levels at work:

• Medical costs include diagnostic tests, hearing aids, hearing exams, and other required treatments.
• Wage loss compensation: You can be eligible for either temporary or permanent disability benefits if your hearing loss interferes with your capacity to work.
• Benefits for permanent partial disability (PPD) are determined by the degree of hearing loss and how it affects your ability to earn a living.

Workers in Wisconsin are exempt from proving employer carelessness as long as they can demonstrate a direct link between their exposure to noise at work and their hearing loss. But the worker still has the burden of evidence, which calls for accurate medical records and records of noise exposure at work.

Procedure for Making a Hearing Loss Workers’ Compensation Claim

Take the following actions to seek workers’ compensation payments if you think your hearing loss is due to your job:

1. Let your employer know that you have hearing loss.

Employees are required by Wisconsin law to report occupational illnesses and injuries as soon as they become known. Share your hearing issues with your employer and explain how they affect your work. Your claim may be complicated by reporting delays.

2. Request a Professional Assessment of Your Hearing

To confirm your hearing loss and identify its source, you must have a medical examination performed by an audiologist or ear expert. Your claim will be heavily influenced by the findings of your hearing tests.

3. Submit a Claim for Workers’ Compensation

The documentation required to start the claim procedure should be supplied by your employer. You can make a direct claim to the Wisconsin Workers’ Compensation Division if they don’t.

4. If needed, follow up and seek legal counsel.

A workers’ compensation lawyer can assist you in navigating the legal system and defending your rights if your claim is rejected or if you have difficulties getting just compensation.

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Difficulties in Proving Hearing Loss at Work

Hearing loss is frequently categorized as an occupational condition, which develops over time, in contrast to abrupt industrial injuries. This may make it more challenging to establish causation. Your hearing loss may be attributed to age or non-work-related conditions, according to employers and insurance companies.

Take into account the following to support your claim:

• Obtain medical records that document a history of occupational noise exposure.
• Colleagues should provide witness statements on noise levels at work.
• Provide previous hearing test results that show a gradual deterioration.
• A knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyer can assist you in persuasively presenting this proof to back up your claims.

How to Avoid Hearing Loss at Work

The best course of action is always to prevent hearing loss in the first place, even though workers’ compensation can offer financial assistance.

Employers ought to put safety precautions in place like:

• Supplying top-notch hearing protection (earmuffs, earplugs).
• Carrying out routine noise evaluations at work.
• Employee rotation reduces extended exposure to noisy situations.
• Providing yearly hearing examinations to track alterations.

Always wear hearing protection as an employee, and let your supervisor know if you have any concerns about high noise levels.

Sources

1. https://www.osha.gov/noise
2. https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/wc/
3. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/noise-induced-hearing-loss