The UK has over 9 million people who are hard of hearing (according to a 2005 survey by the RNID). The underlying cause of this hearing loss varies from age related to noise induced. While age related hearing loss is impossible to prevent, the same isn’t true for noise induced hearing loss. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 (Noise Regulations 2005) requires UK employers to prevent or reduce risks to health and safety including exposure to noise at the workplace. Here is a selection of hearing health and safety tips to help reduce the likelihood of noise induced hearing loss.
Hearing Health and Safety Tips:
1. Noise assessments should be carried by employers - in a noisy machinery environment or noisy work processes, sounds exceeding 85 dB(A) should be identified and targeted for noise reduction controls. The goal is to reduce operator's exposure and prevent long term damage.
2. Wear hearing protection - noise induced hearing loss is long lasting and there is no way to turn back the clock. You are given hearing protection and trained on how to use them, be it muffs or ear plugs so always wear them.
3. Remove hearing protection only when permitted - this protection should be worn at all times while at work and only removed in safe areas as advised by the health and safety team.
4. Care and maintain your hearing protection - the performance of hearing protection equipment can be diminished by poor maintenance and storage. In order to maintain your protection you should:
A. Store safely - when the device is removed, place it in a safe place away from extreme cold or hot conditions.
B. Clean it often - take the time to familiarise yourself with the cleaning process and clean the device often.
C. Replace defected parts - when inspecting the hearing device look for defected or broken parts and immediately tell your employers.
If you are unsure how to care for and maintain your hearing protection equipment, ask your employer for more information.
5. Voice your concerns - if you feel that you are in a noisy environment without protection or without any health and safety training, you should voice your concerns immediately. It is in your interests to ensure that you are provided with adequate protection and that you are working in a safe environment.
6. Pay attention to regulations - it is your responsibility to ensure that you understand what is required from you and what the workplace regulations are when dealing with loud noise. Follow any working methods that are put in place.
7. Ask for a hearing test - employers are encouraged to provide access to health professionals as required. If you suspect that your hearing might be impaired, you should ask for a hearing test. Hearing loss symptoms include, a difficulty in hearing the other party in a conversation, having trouble using the telephone and signs of tinnitus (ringing ears).
Tips from the team at Hearing Direct who offer a range of noise protection aids as well as a wide range of hearing aids for those with a hearing disability.
Article supplied by Ran of Hearing Direct
