Work-related vision and hearing loss can have a lasting impact on your ability to perform your job and manage daily tasks. These conditions often develop due to prolonged exposure to hazardous work environments, such as loud machinery, chemicals, or unsafe lighting conditions.
If your job has contributed to partial or total vision or hearing loss, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, proving that your condition is work-related requires strong evidence.
Common Causes of Work-Related Vision and Hearing Loss
Workplace environments can expose employees to risks that lead to gradual or sudden loss of vision or hearing. Common causes include:
Causes of Vision Loss
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as cleaning agents, industrial solvents, or toxic fumes
- Workplace accidents involving foreign objects striking the eye
- Prolonged exposure to bright lights or radiation, such as welding arcs or laser equipment
- Chronic eye strain due to inadequate lighting or extended screen use without protective measures
Causes of Hearing Loss
- Repeated exposure to loud noises from machinery, construction equipment, or factory operations
- Sudden, extreme noise events such as explosions or equipment malfunctions
- Lack of proper hearing protection in high-decibel work environments
- Long-term exposure to harmful frequencies that damage inner ear structures
If your workplace conditions contributed to your vision or hearing loss, gathering strong medical and workplace evidence is essential for your workers’ compensation claim.
Essential Evidence for Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
Workers’ compensation insurance providers often try to deny or minimize claims for vision and hearing loss, arguing that the condition is due to aging, genetics, or non-work-related factors. To prove your case, you must provide clear medical and occupational evidence.
Medical Documentation
- A formal diagnosis from an ophthalmologist, optometrist, or audiologist confirming the extent of your vision or hearing loss
- Medical test results, such as audiograms for hearing loss or eye exams for vision impairment
- Statements from your doctor linking your condition to workplace exposure or incidents
- Records of treatments, prescriptions, and recommended medical interventions
Workplace Exposure Evidence
- Documentation of your work environment, including exposure to chemicals, loud machinery, or other hazardous conditions
- Records of workplace safety reports, particularly those mentioning high noise levels or dangerous light exposure
- Testimonies from coworkers who have experienced similar conditions due to the same workplace hazards
- Employer records indicating whether protective equipment, such as earplugs or safety goggles, was provided or required
Incident Reports and Timeline Documentation
- If the loss occurred due to a specific workplace accident, file an incident report and obtain a copy for your records
- Keep a personal journal documenting when symptoms started, how they progressed, and how they impact your ability to work
- Retain copies of any workplace safety complaints or prior injury reports related to hearing or vision issues
Challenges in Proving Vision or Hearing Loss Claims
Insurance companies frequently dispute vision and hearing loss claims by suggesting that the condition is due to:
- Aging or pre-existing medical conditions
- Non-work-related factors such as hobbies, medications, or lifestyle choices
- Failure to wear proper safety equipment, even if the employer did not enforce its use
To overcome these challenges, it is important to have a medical professional directly link your condition to workplace hazards and present strong supporting documentation.
What to Do if Your Claim is Denied
If your claim is denied, do not assume that you are ineligible for benefits. Many claims are initially denied due to a lack of documentation or employer disputes. You have the right to appeal and provide additional evidence to strengthen your case.
An employment attorney can assist with:
- Gathering medical expert opinions to reinforce your claim
- Challenging unfair denials and negotiating with insurance companies
- Ensuring you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and necessary treatments
If you are experiencing work-related vision or hearing loss, do not wait to take action. Contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542 today to discuss your legal options and protect your right to compensation.