Listen up! Be Aware of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Visual depicting the impact of loud environments on hearing, highlighting risks of noise-induced hearing loss in the construction industry.

A quiet threat to many employees is the impact that noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) can have on an individual. Many workers may not realise the damage is done until it is too late, due to the fact that it happens so gradually. NIHL is typically caused by exposure to loud sounds and cannot be medically or surgically corrected (Source: CDC). Let’s learn more about this NIHL and how to avoid any repercussions linked to it.

What’s the Buzz around NIHL?

NIHL occurs when tiny hair cells in our inner ear are exposed to a loud noise/noises. This can be a one-time exposure, such as an explosion, or prolonged exposure over time (Source: NIH). Once these hairs are gone, they do not grow back, resulting in irreversible hearing damage that extends from the workplace to our personal lives.

Why it matters while on the Job

Hearing is essential to any worker that aims to perform their role appropriately. In high-risk environments, such as manufacturing plants or construction sites, being able to adhere to warning signals or verbal instructions could be the difference between safely performing tasks and becoming a hazard to yourself and others. Hearing loss can reduce your productivity, increase risk associated with existing hazards, and lead to increased fatigue.

Habits that reduce the likelihood of NIHL

Prevention is the best form of protecting yourself, so take note of what can help.

  • Use hearing protection:
      • Ask for earplugs and earmuffs and ensure that they are properly fitted to your head shape so that there is a high level of noise protection, while also checking for no visible imperfections that may impact it’s effectiveness
    • Identify what may be a noise hazard:
      • Did you know that any sounds at or above 85 A-weighted decibels (dBA) can result in hearing loss? Here are some markers so you can make the judgement call on whether hearing protection are needed.
        • Normal conversation: 60-70 dBA
        • Motorcycles: 80-110 dBA
        • Circular Saws: 90-100 dBA
        • Music through headphones at Max volume: 94-110 dBA
    • Limit exposure:
      • Try and fit time into your shift that allows for quiet breaks to reduce the strain on your ears, rotate during shifts if possible
    • Raise awareness for others:
      • Spread the threat of NIHL to your colleagues, and the potential risks of prolonged noise exposure, don’t let hearing loss be an afterthought
    • Test your hearing regularly:
      • Having your hearing checked regularly can help you detect early whether there are any changes to your hearing

Make noise around the importance of Hearing Health

Whether you are in a high-intensity role or not, there is no excuse for putting your hearing at risk. It is easy to overlook but is not very difficult to prevent once you are aware and have the appropriate PPE to safeguard your long-term health.

Authored by Gearoid Noone

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