Hearing loss happens slowly, so an individual may not notice until there is a serious decrease in the ability to hear normal sounds. Not only does this interfere with enjoying life, but it may be hazardous on the job. Excessive noise (noise is unwanted sound) doesn’t just hurt one’s hearing, but can cause tinnitus, a ringing sound in the ears, fatigue and nervousness or anxiety, elevated blood pressure, and increased stress that can help lead to heart disease. Below are some tips to help reduce noise exposure and hearing loss:
- Make the workplace quieter – Use quieter equipment when possible.
- Cut down the time spent around loud noises
- Use protective equipment like earplugs or earmuffs – Workers need to be trained to use it. Use hearing protection that is easy to put on and take off and has sufficient protection, called Noise Reduction Rating (NRR).
For more information on OSHA standards regarding hearing protection, please visit https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/noisehearingconservation/loud.html