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Exposure to Loud Noise During a Work Shift Can Harm Your Hearing

The human auditory system is a remarkable and delicate mechanism that enables us to perceive and interpret sounds. When exposed to excessive or prolonged loud noise, our hearing can suffer irreversible damage

This issue is particularly relevant in occupational settings where workers are exposed to high levels of noise on a regular basis. 

Examples:

  1. Construction Workers: Construction sites often involve the use of heavy machinery, power tools, and equipment that generate high levels of noise.
  2. Airport Ground Crew: Workers on airport tarmacs and runways are exposed to excessive noise from aircraft engines, ground support equipment, and other operations.
  3. Music Industry Professionals: Musicians, sound technicians, and concert production staff can experience prolonged exposure to high levels of noise during rehearsals, performances, and sound-checks.
  4. Shipyard Workers: Employees involved in shipbuilding, repairs, or maritime activities may encounter excessive noise from engines, heavy machinery, and various shipyard operations.
  5. Entertainment Venue Staff: Workers in nightclubs, bars, stadiums, and concert venues can be exposed to high noise levels from music, crowds, amplification systems, and live performances.

It’s important to note that these occupations represent a range of industries and job roles with potential exposure to excessive noise, but there may be other occupations not listed here that can also pose a risk of noise-related hazards.

According to The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels (dB) is considered hazardous and requires preventative measures.

In their publication titled “Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention,” NIOSH emphasizes that repeated exposure to high noise levels damages the hair cells in the inner ear, leading to sensorineural hearing loss. 

This type of hearing loss is irreversible and can result in difficulty understanding speech, reduced job performance, and decreased quality of life. 

NIOSH recommends implementing engineering controls, such as sound barriers and enclosures, as well as providing workers with hearing protection devices to minimize noise exposure.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal agency responsible for enforcing safety and health regulations in the workplace. OSHA sets permissible exposure limits (PELs) for various hazardous substances, including noise. According to OSHA, the permissible exposure limit for noise is 90 dB averaged over an 8-hour work shift.

OSHA recommends employers to implement a hearing conservation program which typically includes noise monitoring, engineering controls, hearing protection, training, and regular hearing tests for workers.

According to The World Health Organization (WHO), around 16% of disabling hearing loss worldwide is attributable to occupational noise exposure. They highlight that exposure to noise levels above 85 dB can cause immediate and long-term damage to hearing. WHO recommends reducing noise exposure levels through engineering controls, adopting quieter technologies, and implementing administrative measures like job rotation and work breaks.

What can you do to protect yourself?

  • Use Effective Hearing Protection:
  • Employ suitable hearing protection devices, such as earmuffs or earplugs, to reduce exposure to high-level noise that are specifically designed for your work environment and provide adequate noise reduction. 
  • Ensure that the devices fit properly and are worn consistently in noisy areas. 
  • Regularly inspect and replace them if they become damaged or worn out. 
  • Adhere to proper usage guidelines

Implement Engineering Controls :

  • Advocate for the implementation of engineering controls to reduce noise levels at the source. 
  • Work with your employer to identify and implement effective measures such as sound barriers, acoustic enclosures, or mufflers for noisy equipment. 
  • Encourage regular maintenance and lubrication of machinery to minimize noise emissions.

By addressing the root cause of excessive noise, you can reduce reliance on personal protective equipment and create a safer work environment for everyone.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) all stress the importance of preventing occupational noise exposure and implementing appropriate control measures.

To protect workers’ hearing, it is crucial for employers to assess and mitigate noise hazards in the workplace. 

This may involve implementing engineering controls, providing them with hearing protection devices, establishing hearing conservation programs, and conducting regular monitoring and testing. 

By prioritizing hearing health and safety, both employers and employees can ensure a healthier and more productive workforce. If you feel you are at risk and need to get a hearing assessment or further information do not hesitate to give us a call.

 

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Jack Becker
Jack Becker
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Dennis Ferrell
Dennis Ferrell
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I recently got evaluated by Upstate Hearing and purchased some state-of-the-art hearing aids from them. The clinicians were professional and competent. All staff I encountered, from the front desk to the clinical staff, were courteous and helpful. They went the extra mile to accommodate my crazy schedule. I would recommend them to anyone needing help with a hearing problem. One nice thing about Upstate Hearing is they offer devices from a variety of manufacturers and not just one with whom they have a special financial relationship.
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Silverliningsgirl NATALIE PAGANO
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Larry Davis
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Ken Mehle
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Miguel Moreno
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Eva Croft
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the paisley channel Larsen
1719790738
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Matt Rifkin
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Ararespecies Skidiveliveride
Ararespecies Skidiveliveride
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heather stevens
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Nancy Carver
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I can't say enough about the staff at the Chico office! I have several issues going on with my ears and hearing. Christa and Rene addressed them the best they could and even went above and beyond, to help me. Both their knowledge and concern is amazing. They realized I needed to be referred out of the area for care. Be assured I will be back to the office for hearing devices.
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Jena Vincent
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Fantastic, friendly, very thorough service. I had never had a full hearing exam before. Joshua explained each step in a courteous and delightful manner and helped me get some devices which have already changed my life. I have my full hearing back and then some. He made the process very enjoyable and I highly recommend Upstate Hearing!
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Ric Brown
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Jon Luvaas
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Irene Woodward
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Upstate hearing has been so helpful. Christa and Rene have been great. My mom is 87 years old and has not been able to hear well for about 5 years with her hearing aids. Her aids are v er ry old. They have adjusted her aids, put bigger microphones on them and had custom molds made for her ears. My mom can hear everything now for the first time in years. She has a smile on her face now and no longer feels left out. Thank you so much for taking the time to keep working on this to get it wright for her.
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Amanda Rouse
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Misty Kafader
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Andy Adams
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Judy Petrucelli
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Julie Suniga
Julie Suniga
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When I finally made the decision to do something about my hearing loss two different friends recommended Christa at Upstate. Rene set up my appointment and sent me some paperwork to complete before my visit.When I arrived, she made me feel right at home while I waited. During my initial meeting with Christa, she instantly put me at ease. She did a complete hearing exam and test and then we talked about options. Her suggestion was to try hearing aids to see what I thought, no pressure. Well, I fell in love with the ability to hear clearly and her! She is very accommodating, warm and friendly. Yes, I highly recommend the team of Christa and Rene at Upstate.
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Kathleen Gebauer
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Al Barbara
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Robert Wells
Robert Wells
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