Preventative Measures for Hearing Loss on the Job

Hearing loss is the third leading chronic physical condition in the U.S., following high blood pressure and arthritis. Hearing loss is the most prevalent work-related illness, due to dangerous noise levels in these environments. Here are some recommendations to reduce the risks of exposure to noise in the workplace.

Nearly every industry can put employees at risk of work-related hearing loss

Prevention is important because noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the only preventable type of hearing loss and it’s the easiest to manage. 

• Nearly all work-related hearing loss is permanent and can have significant impacts on a person’s overall quality of life. 
• When hearing declines, the ability to hear important warning sounds or understand what others are saying will be challenging. This can lead to social isolation and depression. 
• Hearing loss is connected to a decline in cognitive abilities and heart problems like high blood pressure. 
• Hearing loss can make ordinary things less enjoyable, like music, hearing a joke, or a loved one speaking.
• Tinnitus can disrupt sleep patterns and the ability to focus. It usually happens alongside hearing loss. Both symptoms have been linked to anxiety and depression. 
• There are safety concerns at home, on the job, in public, or even during important medical appointments that can be impacted by poor hearing abilities. 
• Workers with hearing loss generally receive a lower income than workers with normal hearing.     

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​Preventing Hearing Loss on the Job

Find out whether the noise in your work environment is dangerous. Just like with any loud space, if you need to speak louder when the person you are talking to is just an arm’s length away, the noise level is too loud. 

Use a noise level meter app to determine the noise level in your environment. Discuss checking noise levels in your workplace with your manager or supervisor. 

Decrease noise from the source. Use quiet tools and equipment, or wear hearing protection - like earplugs or earmuffs - while using them.

Reduce exposure to noise:

• If you are working all day around noisy equipment, take a break.
• Make an enclosure around the source of the noise, or put up a barrier to block out some of the noise. 
• If possible, create more distance between you and the noise source.
• If possible, spend less time in noisy spaces.
• Always wear hearing protection in noisy environments. 
• Listen to music at safe levels. Only listen in areas that are not too busy/noisy. Attempting to drown out background noise by turning up the volume can worsen your hearing. 

If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, tinnitus, or both, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.   

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