Policy
The WSIB accepts entitlement for occupational noise-induced tinnitus if it is the result of exposure to hazardous noise through employment in Ontario and if all the following circumstances exist
- there is an accepted claim for occupational noise-induced hearing loss,
and
- there is a clear and adequate history of two or more years of continuous and severe tinnitus,
and
- the condition has been confirmed by a specialist with facilities for testing tinnitus.
Guidelines
Entitlement to compensation under the Rating Schedule in document 16-01-03, Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss is retroactive to the date of the policy change (June 3, 1988), or the date of the disability, whichever is later.
Permanent disability awards for tinnitus do not usually exceed 2%, except under unusual circumstances (e.g., when there is severe psychotraumatic disability as a result of tinnitus).
Application date
This policy applies to accidents occurring before January 2, 1990.
For Tinnitus, Post-January 2, 1990, see 16-01-08, Tinnitus, Post-January 2, 1990.
Document History
This document replaces 04-03-07.
References
Legislative Authority
Workers' Compensation Act, R.S.O. 1980, as amended
Sections 1(1)(n), 40(1), 45(1), 45(3), 45(12), 52, 122
Minute
Board of Directors
#8(XII), June 10, 2004, Page 6618