We are surrounded by noise pollution in today. Repeated exposure to sounds higher than 85 dBA can also lead to occupational hearing loss.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost 22 million Americans experience noise-induced hearing loss. Regulations exist to prevent this type of injury and help workers avoid further problems like hypertension and cardiovascular issues.
In today’s guide, we will look at some of the steps employers and employees can take to prevent workplace hearing loss.
What is Occupational Hearing Loss?
Noise pollution is one of the most common workplace hazards and causes occupational hearing impairment.
This hearing loss can occur gradually with prolonged exposure to noise pollution. The noise can come from special equipment like power tools, heavy machinery, or firearms. Hearing loss can also occur suddenly due to a loud noise like an explosion. Exposure to hazardous chemicals can also cause hearing impairment in the workplace.
Signs of hearing loss include:
- Balance problems
- Ringing or buzzing in the ears
- A feeling of ear fullness
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Experiencing pain or discomfort when hearing loud noises
The occupational hearing loss workers experience might be temporary or permanent. Both types can be prevented by following regulations for noise-induced hearing loss.
At-Risk Industries
Workers in every industry can experience hearing impairment. However, some industries are more prone to this risk.
These are the industries most affected by workplace hearing loss:
- Construction and Manufacturing: Workers in these industries operate heavy machinery and noisy equipment daily, which can damage their hearing over time.
- Entertainment: People in specific sectors of the entertainment industry, such as musicians, DJs, and sound engineers, are at a high risk of developing occupational hearing loss.
- Aviation: Airport employees and those working in the aviation industry are exposed to the sounds of jet engines, which is a significant auditory hazard and can cause lasting damage.
- Transportation: Lastly, transportation workers are at a high risk of experiencing hearing impairment due to constant exposure to the loud sounds of engines and traffic.
How Can Employers Prevent Occupational Hearing Loss?
Occupational hearing impairment is preventable. Its prevention falls under the responsibilities of employers.
Here are some of the most effective ways employers can prevent noise-induced hearing loss and comply with regulations.
1. Provide Hearing Protection Equipment
The most fundamental way employers can prevent hearing loss is by providing appropriate hearing protection equipment. This effective equipment is necessary when employees are exposed to sound levels above 85 dBA.
Protective hearing equipment comes in different sizes and materials. The most common types include earplugs, earmuffs, and canal caps. Employers must choose the appropriate equipment based on the noise exposure level in their work environment.
2. Conduct Regular Noise Level Assessments
Another way employers can prevent occupational hearing loss is by conducting regular noise assessments. These assessments can help identify areas with excessive noise and enable employers to take the necessary steps to eliminate the noise.
Measuring noise levels also allows employers to detect noisy machinery. They can then replace those machines with quieter alternatives. This investment can reduce noise exposure and lower healthcare costs in the long run.
3. Implement Engineering Controls
One of the noise-induced hearing loss regulations employers can follow to reduce excessive sounds is to implement engineering controls. Our 3E process at BIOKINETIX includes an engineering step that modifies the workplace to prevent occupational hearing loss.
For instance, our experts recommend employers place physical barriers and sound insulations to reduce noise exposure or schedule loud work hours for when fewer workers are around.
4. Train Employees on Hearing Conservation
Employee education is another crucial aspect of preventing hearing injuries that fall under the responsibility of employers.
Employers should provide comprehensive training to employees regarding noise exposure hazards, proper use of hearing protection devices, and the importance of reporting any hearing-related concerns.
5. Encourage Regular Hearing Screenings
Lastly, employers must encourage regular hearing tests to detect any early signs of hearing loss in their employees.
They can partner with healthcare providers for regular assessments. If any problems are detected, early intervention is necessary to prevent further damage and keep the employee’s hearing in check.
How Can Employees Prevent Occupational Hearing Loss?
Employers can only do so much by following noise-induced hearing loss regulations. At one point, it becomes the responsibility of employees themselves to protect their hearing.
Here are some steps employees can take to avoid hearing impairment at the workplace.
1. Use Hearing Protection When Necessary
We cannot overstate the importance of personal protective equipment at work, especially in places with auditory hazards. Wearing hearing protection gear is one of the simplest ways employees can avoid hearing loss.
Whether it’s earplugs, earmuffs, or other specialized devices, employees must use the correct type of hearing protectors for their work environment to reduce their exposure to excessive noise levels.
2. Limit Exposure to Loud Noises
Another way employees can prevent occupational hearing loss is by limiting their exposure to loud noises. They must be mindful of their surroundings and avoid noisy areas whenever possible.
If employees have control over the volume of equipment or machinery, they can set it at safe levels per the standard noise-induced hearing loss regulations.
3. Take Regular Breaks in Noisy Work Environments
Employees who work in noisy areas must take regular breaks to protect their hearing. Taking short breaks in quieter areas allows the ears to rest and recover.
Employees can also check their hearing protectors during breaks to ensure their functionality and prevent occupational hearing loss.
Breaks are also a great opportunity for letting the whole body rest. Participating in workplace stretching programs is an excellent way of doing that.
4. Report Hearing Issues to Employers
Employees must actively communicate any hearing issues or concerns to their employers. They should be aware of signs of hearing impairment and report any problem as soon as it arises.
Employers must address these issues, and early intervention at work allows them to mitigate the progression of hearing loss.
5. Participate in Hearing Conservation Training
Finally, employees must participate in training and education programs about occupational hearing loss.
These programs educate employees about
- The proper use of hearing protectors
- The risks of excessive noise exposure
- The importance of regular hearing screening
- Actionable steps for preventing auditory injuries
By actively engaging in these training sessions and staying informed about the best practices, employees can follow guidelines better, increase their awareness, and protect their hearing more effectively.
Prevent Occupational Hearing Loss With BIOKINETIX
Preventing noise-induced hearing loss is possible by following regulations and taking proactive measures. Our guide can be a valuable resource for employees and employers to create a safety culture.
However, to effectively reduce noise pollution in the workplace and keep employees safe, you need the help of professional ergonomists. Our experts at BIOKINETIX can help with that!
We can turn your work environment into a safe and injury-free space with our strategic services and science-based methodologies. Contact us today to schedule a free demo and learn more about our strategies for preventing occupational hearing loss.
