New Jersey construction sites can vary dramatically, and workers need to be flexible and attentive to avoid injury. In some cases, earplugs are practical safety tools for protecting one’s hearing, but in many cases, these can create even more danger for a worker. The situation may determine weather ear protection is beneficial. However, all construction workers should be aware of their potential for hearing loss during exposure to particularly loud noises.
OSHA indicates that hearing loss may begin as a gradual and temporary issue. However, prolonged exposure to loud noises on a regular basis can result in permanent damage. This is because the cilia, hairlike cells in the ears, can be damaged by loud noises. The initial cells to be damaged typically relate to one’s ability to hear high-frequency noises. Severe damage can affect one’s ability to hear speech clearly. People who notice issues such as ringing in the ears, who have trouble understanding speech during telephone calls or who require frequent repetition of speech may want to have their hearing professionally evaluated.
A construction contractor is responsible for adhering to OSHA’s safety standards, and this may include education for employees with regard to issues such as hearing loss and dangers. However, this might need to be balanced with other safety needs, especially on active sites with a lot of movement of both people and machinery. In some cases, periodic hearing tests for employees might provide a long-term view of how employment activities affect workers.
Workers’ compensation insurance is typically carried by a construction contractor to ensure that workers who suffer on-the-job injuries as well as occupational diseases are covered for medical treatment and a percentage of lost wages. As the claim filing procedure is time-sensitive, many workers who are preparing their claims obtain the assistance of an attorney to help ensure that all necessary documents are included.
