Policy 21-112 Occupational Hearing Loss

What is the policy about?

Policy 21-112 Occupational Hearing Loss deals with claims for noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) due to exposure to excessive noise in the workplace. It provides information as to what NIHL is and what are the characteristics of occupational NIHL. The policy also outlines the criteria decision-makers use to adjudicate these claims.

Why is the policy being reviewed?

Policy 21-112 Occupational Hearing Loss is being reviewed to address:

• Last review date – This policy was last reviewed in 2018; and
• Feedback from staff – WorkSafeNB staff have identified opportunities for improvement in the policy, including added clarity and guidance.

What is the nature of the changes?

The proposed changes to Policy 21-112 Occupational Hearing Loss bring clarification and consistency within the policy and with current business practices, while providing additional information as it relates to traumatic (acute) hearing loss, noise-exposure in workplaces within NB and out-of-province, as well as tinnitus caused by NIHL.

The goal of this consultation is to gather stakeholder feedback on the proposed revisions to Policy 21-112 Occupational Hearing Loss. You can see the current policy, proposed revisions, and an explanation of the revisions here.