Hearing and vision are critical to performing many job functions safely and effectively. Unfortunately, some work environments expose employees to conditions that can damage these essential senses—either suddenly or over time. From loud industrial settings to chemical exposure, workplace hazards can result in partial or total sensory loss.
If you’ve developed work-related vision or hearing loss, you may be eligible for disability benefits through California’s workers’ compensation system. At PLBH, we help injured workers understand their rights and pursue the support they need to move forward.
How Work-Related Vision and Hearing Loss Occur
Sensory loss doesn’t always happen from a one-time incident. Many workers experience gradual impairment due to repeated or prolonged exposure on the job. Understanding the source of the damage is a key step in proving your eligibility for benefits.
Common Causes of Hearing Loss
- Prolonged exposure to loud machinery or equipment
- Sudden loud noises or explosions
- Lack of protective hearing equipment
- Ototoxic chemicals (solvents and heavy metals that damage hearing)
Common Causes of Vision Loss
- Exposure to chemical irritants or fumes
- Bright or flashing lights (e.g., welding arcs)
- Blunt trauma or foreign objects in the eye
- Lack of protective eyewear in high-risk areas
Whether the damage is immediate or accumulates over time, you may qualify for workers’ comp benefits if the loss is linked to your job.
When Are You Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?
To qualify for benefits, you must show that your hearing or vision loss is work-related. This can be more challenging with gradual injuries, but you are still protected under California law.
You may be eligible for disability benefits if:
- You were exposed to a hazardous condition at work
- You have a medical diagnosis confirming vision or hearing impairment
- A doctor determines that your condition is related to your employment
- You reported your symptoms to your employer within the required timeframe
Even if you had pre-existing conditions, you may still qualify if work conditions made them worse.
Types of Benefits Available
California’s workers’ compensation system provides several types of benefits for employees with qualifying sensory loss.
Medical Treatment
- Coverage for specialist visits, diagnostic testing, and ongoing care
- Hearing aids, prescription eyewear, and necessary surgeries
- Rehabilitation or occupational therapy
Temporary Disability Benefits
- Partial wage replacement if your condition prevents you from working temporarily
- Payments based on your average weekly earnings
Permanent Disability Benefits
- Compensation if your vision or hearing loss is lasting or irreversible
- Amount depends on the degree of impairment and how it affects your ability to work
Supplemental Job Displacement Benefits
- If your injury prevents you from returning to your old job, you may qualify for vouchers to pay for retraining or education
Proving Your Claim: Key Evidence to Gather
Proving workplace-related vision or hearing loss requires a combination of medical documentation and job-related evidence.
Important evidence includes:
- Medical records and diagnostic test results (audiograms, eye exams, imaging)
- Physician’s opinion linking the loss to your work conditions
- Detailed work history, including job duties and known hazards
- Workplace safety reports or OSHA citations, if applicable
- Documentation of protective gear—or lack thereof
The more thoroughly your condition is documented and connected to your job, the stronger your claim will be.
Protect Your Rights with Legal Support
Insurance companies may try to downplay your condition, especially if it developed gradually. They may argue your symptoms are age-related or due to outside factors. That’s why it’s essential to have an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side.
At PLBH, we focus exclusively on helping injured workers in California. If you’ve suffered work-related vision or hearing loss, call PLBH at (800) 435-7542 to schedule a free consultation. We’ll guide you through the claims process, gather the right evidence, and fight for the benefits you deserve.