Protecting Your Hearing: The Hidden Danger in Maritime Work
Working at sea can be exciting and rewarding. But there's a hidden danger that many maritime workers face every day: noise-induced hearing loss. At Arnold & Itkin, we care deeply about the health and safety of maritime workers and their families. We want to help you understand this risk and what you can do to protect yourself.
What Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?
Noise-induced hearing loss happens when loud sounds damage the tiny hair cells in your inner ear. These cells help send sound signals to your brain. When they get damaged, it can lead to permanent hearing loss.
This type of hearing loss builds up over time and can't be reversed.
Noise Is a Problem on Maritime Vessels
Ships are full of loud noises. Engines, generators, machinery, and even the constant sound of the sea can create high levels of noise. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), sounds above 85 decibels (dB) can cause hearing loss over time.
Many areas on a vessel or offshore platform are much louder than this.
Common sources of loud noise on maritime vessels include:
- Engine Rooms: The main engines can be extremely loud, sometimes reaching 110 dB or more.
- Machinery Spaces: Equipment like pumps and compressors add to the noise.
- Deck Operations: Activities such as loading and unloading cargo create loud sounds.
- Alarm Systems: Safety alarms are designed to be loud to get the crew’s attention, but they can damage one’s hearing.
Effects of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss doesn't just make everything sound quieter. It can make it hard to understand speech, especially when there's background noise. This can affect your ability to communicate with your crew, which is vital for safety.
Hearing loss can also lead to:
- Tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing in the ears
- Social isolation due to difficulty in joining conversations
- Fatigue from straining to hear
- Frustration, anxiety, or depression
Signs You May Be Losing Your Hearing
In many cases, hearing loss in maritime workers doesn’t happen overnight. There are signs to watch for, that may indicate that you are beginning to lose your hearing.
Signs of hearing loss may include:
- Trouble hearing conversations, especially in noisy places
- A constant or occasional ringing sound in your ears
- Needing to turn the volume on the TV or radio louder than before
- Frequently needing to ask others to repeat themselves
If you notice these signs, it's important to get your hearing checked by a professional.
Preventing Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Maritime employers have a duty to provide a safe workplace, and this includes protecting workers from harmful noise levels.
Employers should:
- Regularly measure noise levels in different areas of a vessel
- Provide proper hearing protection to all workers exposed to loud noises
- When applicable, use quieter equipment or install noise-reducing materials
- Train workers about the risks of noise and how to protect themselves.
- Limit the time workers spend in loud areas
Employers are also prohibited from retaliating against crew members for reporting unsafe work conditions—including those involving noise exposure.
Your Legal Rights as a Maritime Worker
Laws like the Jones Act protect maritime workers who are injured on the job. This includes injuries like hearing loss caused by excessive noise. Employers are responsible for providing a safe work environment. If they fail to do so, they can be held accountable.
Examples of employer negligence may include:
- Failing to supply proper hearing protection
- Not educating workers about noise risks
- Using old or poorly maintained machinery or equipment
If your employer didn't take steps to protect your hearing, you might be entitled to compensation for medical treatment, assistive devices, lost earnings, and possibly more.
What You Can Do
If you believe you've suffered hearing loss due to your maritime work, don't wait to take action. Noise-induced hearing loss is a serious but often overlooked risk in the maritime industry. It's important to be aware of the dangers and take steps to protect yourself. Remember, your employer has a legal obligation to ensure a safe work environment.
At Arnold & Itkin, we're here to help maritime workers and their families. If you or a loved one has been affected by hearing loss due to workplace noise, we want to hear your story. Let us stand by your side and fight for the justice you deserve.
