Noise: A Hidden Danger in Tampa Workplaces

When most people think about workplace hazards in Tampa, they picture heavy machinery, power tools, and electrical cables. What most people fail to realize, however, is that these hazards are only dangerous if workers are unaware of them. This lack of awareness is the real killer – and workers rely heavily on their sense of hearing to avoid various hazards. Ears become useless if there is too much noise in the workplace, and this leads to a deceptively high number of workplace accidents in Tampa.

Occupational Noise Exposure Explained 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) describes loud workplace sounds as “occupational noise exposure.” The organization links this hazard to a range of effects, including tinnitus, psychological stress, and more. OSHA also notes that serious cases of hearing loss are permanent, and no modern surgery can correct this issue.

Perhaps most notably, occupational noise exposure can make accidents more likely. The reason for this is obvious. Like many other living things, humans rely on their ears to detect all kinds of hazards. With your back turned to a piece of heavy machinery, the only real way to determine whether it’s getting closer is with your ears. But what happens if another piece of machinery is making a louder noise – drowning out the sound of an approaching forklift or excavator?

Many safety features and warnings are completely useless with sufficient occupational noise exposure. For example, a reversing forklift has sirens or horns that alert nearby workers. Again, this feature is completely useless if you can’t hear anything over the sound of a nearby jackhammer.

Ultimately, each employer must identify occupational noise exposure and take effective steps to address this safety hazard. Too often, they fail to do this.

Pursuing Compensation for Workplace Hearing Loss in Tampa 

Although loud noises can make it more difficult to detect various hazards, it can also lead to hearing loss over time. For many workers, it is impossible to avoid this gradual decline in hearing ability. Disorders like tinnitus are particularly common in some fields, and this could cause a serious decrease in your quality of life.

You should be able to pursue compensation for hearing loss or hearing disorders if they are linked to your job. Even if you were initially exposed to the noise long ago, you can still pursue a workers’ compensation claim many years later. A claim can help you pay for hearing aids, surgeries, and other treatment methods. There is no sense in facing stressful hearing disorders like tinnitus without the compensation you deserve.

Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Tampa Help My Family? 

A workers’ compensation lawyer in Tampa may be able to help you recover compensation after a workplace accident. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. If you have already filed your accident report and you’re facing a denied claim, we can help you push back and pursue the financial support your family needs. To learn more, contact The Franco Law Firm today.

Sources: 

osha.gov/noise/health-effects

cdc.gov/niosh/noise/surveillance/overall.html