Over 9 million people in the UK suffer from some degree of hearing loss. The underlying cause of this hearing loss varies; age related or noise induced. The latter is the most preventable, it’s impact diligence. Following is a selection of hearing health and safety tips to help reduce the likelihood of noise induced hearing loss.
“Tips from the team at Hearing Direct who offer a range of hearing protection as well as a wide range of hearing aids for those with a hearing disability. ”
Hearing Health and Safety Tips:
1. Prevention – Noise assessments should be conducted and noisy machines or work processes where the operator’s exposure could exceed 85 dB(A) should be identified and targeted for noise reduction controls. Employers are encouraged to actively monitor and assess noise levels and any trends in noise related illness on a regular basis.
2. Wear hearing protection – If you are given hearing protection and trained on how to use them, be it muffs or ear plugs; always wear them. This protection should be worn at all times while at work and removed only in safe areas as advised by the health and safety team.
3. Care for hearing protection equipment – the performance of hearing protection equipment can be diminished by poor maintenance and storage. If you are unsure how to care for and maintain your hearing protection equipment, ask your employer for more information, it is in your interest to ensure what you are using is providing adequate protection.
4. Share your concerns – As with all health and safety issues, if you feel you are placed in a situation where you are exposed to loud noise without appropriate protection, you must flag it up immediately.
5. Pay attention to instructions – Make sure you understand what is required from you and what the policy is on dealing with loud noise. Follow any working methods that are put in place.
6. Arrange a hearing test – If you suspect your hearing might be impaired, visit your GP for a hearing test. You could also do an online hearing check, although this check does not replace an audiologist or GP hearing test. Employers are encouraged to provide access to health professionals as required.
“Tips from the team at Hearing Direct who offer a range of hearing protection as well as a wide range of hearing aids for those with a hearing disability. ”
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