Muscatine County v. Morrison

McGIVERIN, Justice.

This case presents an issue of first impression concerning the compensability of a hearing loss under the Occupational Hearing Loss Act, Iowa Code chapter 85B (1985). The specific issue we are asked to address is whether a hearing loss that results from prolonged exposure to noise while working is compensable under chapter 85B when the exposure is to noise below the times and intensities specified in Iowa Code section 85B.5. We conclude that such a loss may be compensable; thus, we affirm the rulings of the district court and the industrial commissioner.

I. Background facts…