Concerts, iPods, thunderous sporting events, and work in loud locations may contribute to an individual suffering hearing loss in the future. These sources of sound are affecting all generations of workers.
Additionally, we all experience a natural degradation of our sense of hearing which most experience after the age of 40. Therefore, external factors combined with the aging process can make our hearing loss an even more significant concern.
When working with seasoned employees, be aware that instructions you shout from across the room may not be understood or heard because certain tones or frequency ranges can drop out and be inaudible. In addition, the employee might also be experiencing a ringing in their ears, a condition known as tinnitus, which can make it difficult for the employee to hear warning shouts or instructions in a noisy environment.
A few practical mitigation ideas:
- Always wear hearing protection when noise levels remain sustained above 85 dB. See this noise level chart.
- Several noise apps for your smartphone can provide a preliminary evaluation.
- Try to reduce background noise levels as much as possible by shielding noisy equipment.
- Communicate important information visually.
- Reduce echoes in the workplace with improved acoustics.
- Sirens or warning alarms should have alternating frequencies.
- Provide hands-free telephone headsets with adjustable volume switches.
- Speak clearly.
Technology can help us improve hearing somewhat, but it’s currently a sense we can’t get back once we lose it.
Our safety team is available to help members take their safety program from compliance to quality safety practices. Contact us at [email protected] to learn more.
