1. WCB Hearing Loss Discussion at AMC Quarterly Meeting March 7, 2012

2. Talking Points Two types Noise-induced hearing loss (noisy environment over a period of time) Traumatic hearing loss (eg. Explosion) Approx 1000 hearing loss claims submitted each year 80% Accepted Approximately $5.5 million spent per year on hearing loss claim entitlement 2

3. Talking Points Noise Induced Hearing Loss (policy 44.20.50.20)  Exposure - 2 years based generally upon an average of 85 decibels for 8 hours of exposure on a daily basis For every increase in noise levels by 3dba, the required exposure time will be cut by half worker 3

4. Threshold Limit Value TLV is the amount of time that workers can be safely exposed to a particular noise level: 4 dBAHours per day exposure (for 2 year period) 858 884 912 941 971/2 (30 minutes) 1001/4 (15 minutes) 103 1/8 (12.5 minutes) 1061/16 (6 minutes) 1091/32 (3 minutes) dBAPeriod of exposure (at 8 hours per day) 852 years 881 year 916 months 943 months 971½ months 1003/4 month (22 days) 1033/8 month (11 days) 1063/16 month (7 days) 1093/32 month (9 days)

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6. Talking Points The employer of record is the last (registered) employer in Manitoba where the worker was exposed to noxious noise The date of accident will be: a.The date a loss of earnings has occurred, or b.The date of an audiogram which shows evidence of noise-induced hearing loss. (DOA is not established on the date worker was first exposed to noise) 6

7. Talking Points Multiple employers could be responsible for noise exposure, WCB can cost apportion amongst different accounts Typical costs:  Hearing aid $1200  Impairment Award $8000  Tinnitus Accepted after year 2000 (2% impairment)  Typical aids are replaced every 5 years ** all above costs are currently being reviewed in consideration towards drafting a service agreement with providers 7

8. - Dave Kramer - SAFE Work Coordinator - Ph: (204) 954-4402 dkramer@wcb.mb.ca SAFE Work Services 8