Who is liable for my hearing loss and what can I do about it?

The last employer that exposed you to noise capable of causing hearing loss is liable for all of your industrial deafness.

Example:

John was employed as follows:

·            1975 – 1980 as a fitter and turner at X

·            1980 – 2000 as a machine operator at Y

·           2000 – 2020 as a construction worker at Z

John was assessed as having 12.5% compensable noise induced hearing loss.

John was exposed to industrial noise during his employment with Z.

Z, as John’s last noisy employer, is liable for the entire 12.5% compensable noise induced hearing loss.

John will receive approximately $24,500.00 compensation and free hearing aids.

 

What constitutes noise capable of causing hearing loss?

A worker is considered to have suffered industrial deafness if s/he was exposed to noise over 85dBa over an 8-hour period (this is the average and can be converted depending on dBa and hours of noise exposure).

Some examples of noise that may reach 85dBa include smoke alarms, city traffic and lawnmowers.

 

What can I do about it?

If you were exposed to noise at work and have suffered industrial deafness, you may be able to lodge a claim for compensation and/or hearing aids.

We can represent you on a no-win no-fee basis. This means that if you lodge a claim but do not receive any money, you will not have to pay our costs.

Please contact us on 03 8650 8500 to discuss your rights in relation to compensation or contact us online here.