An assessment of the effects of increased regulatory enforcement and legislative reform on occupational hearing loss workers' compensation claims: Oregon 1984-1998.
BACKGROUND
Hearing loss from occupational exposures is a serious and widespread problem. This study measured the outcomes that increased enforcement of regulations and legislative interventions had on hearing loss workers' compensation claims.


METHODS
Workers' compensation claim data from Oregon was analyzed for the period of 1984-1998 to examine trends and severity of hearing loss claims. In 1987 and 1990, Oregon enacted legislative reforms to improve enforcement and promulgation of safety standards in the state. This study examined hearing loss claims between the periods of pre- and post-legislative reforms.


RESULTS
It was found that hearing loss claims decreased significantly following the legislative reforms, although the average cost per claim increased. Age and tenure effects, and evidence of moral hazard were also discovered.


CONCLUSIONS
Increased enforcement of regulations and legislative interventions by Oregon improved working conditions leading to occupational hearing loss. Nevertheless, hearing loss remains problematic, and continued efforts are required to improve worker safety.
McCall
Brian P
BP
University of Minnesota, Industrial Relations Center, Minnesota, USA.
Horwitz
Irwin B
IB
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D033161:Government Regulation; D034381:Hearing Loss / Q000191:economics*; D006801:Humans; D007345:Insurance Claim Review; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000191:economics*; D009922:Oregon; D014942:Workers' Compensation / Q000191:economics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence