Workers in the army, factories, mines, textile and construction industries etc. are exposed to the highest frequencies of hazardous noise levels. The loud noises in the workplace can cause:
- Inability to communicate or focus effectively
- Higher chances of injury at work
- Psychological or physical stress
- Reduced productivity at work
- *Hearing loss
Prevention
To prevent ear damage in high-noise sectors, most employers implement a hearing loss prevention program. If implemented successfully, the company benefits by reducing cases of hearing damage, workers compensation costs, medical expenses and effects of hearing loss. Unfortunately, most workers are not willing to take part in hearing loss prevention programs, and even when they do, few know what to do about workplace noise levels.
As a worker, it’s important to take part in scheduled hearing loss prevention program audits in your workplace. You might think you’re just fine, but after a few years working, that seemingly average noise exposure in your workplace may be the cause of hearing problems. It’s often a good idea to be involved in the audits so that your employer can implement the right hearing safety procedures based on insights from you and other workers.
Follow Workplace Safety Rules
Hearing protection in the workplace cannot be successful if you’re not following safety rules. Employers will implement engineering and administrative controls to prevent hearing damage at your workplace, but it’s your responsibility to ensure that your following hearing loss safety protocols. Are you wearing hearing protection like noise-bans, earmuffs or earplugs when working? Are you following job-specific rules on accessing noisy working areas?
Reduce Noise Exposure
Sometimes, workers expose themselves to noise that is avoidable in the first place. For instance, spending more time than required in restricted areas of high-noise exposure is not wise. Reducing noise exposure both on and off the job is the best way to prevent hearing damage. If you love listening to music, enjoy it at a reasonable volume and for shorter periods of time, especially on headphones.
Educate Yourself
Most areas with noise exposure that equals or exceeds 85 decibels will be clearly marked with visible signs. If there are loud areas in your workplace with no proper labelling, report it and ensure visible signs are placed. Educating yourself on hearing protection in the workplace is also key to preventing hearing damage.
Always wear proper fitting hearing protection devices
When provided with hearing protection devices like earplugs and earmuffs, make sure that you wear them as expected. Hearing protection devices are most effective if they are worn properly. A good hearing protection device should not block out all the noise but significantly reduce it to a level that is comfortable for you to carry out tasks safely.
Regular Hearing Checks
If you’re constantly or regularly exposed to loud noises at the workplace, it’s important to have regular hearing checks done. While many people assume that everything is alright simply because they hear well, it’s important to note that hearing loss develops over a few years and because it’s gradual and painless, you may never notice it. Regular hearing screening tests are an effective way of knowing whether occupational hearing loss is being prevented in your workplace, it’s important to take part in it.
To prevent hearing loss both in the workplace and in other areas like home, follow these good safety practices:
- If you work in a high-risk environment, check with your employer to ensure that your working site has an effective hearing loss prevention program to ensure hearing protection in the workplace.
- Wear effective hearing protection such as earmuffs and earplugs whenever you’re using loud equipment at work or accessing areas where you’re exposed to loud noises.
- Insist on using quieter products, tools, equipment or machines. Employers are required to ensure that workers are using low-noise products whenever possible.
- Monitor your hearing over time. Considering that audiometric tests at the workplace are only done annually or even after two years, it’s recommended that you see a hearing health professional more routinely for further tests.
- Be alert to other risks of hazardous noise in your day-to-day life.
Ref:
Moldex website