4 ways to protect your hearing at work

In the workplace, both employers and employees are responsible for creating a safe environment. This includes taking steps to minimize the risk of noise-induced and other forms of hearing loss. Here are a few tips to help you protect your hearing at work.

1. Understand your risks

When assessing your risk of hearing loss in the workplace, your profession is a major determinant. For example, those who work in mining, construction, manufacturing and the military are among the most at-risk due to their frequent and prolonged exposure to loud noises. It’s also important to be aware that certain genetic factors can make some people more susceptible to noise-induced hearing loss than others.

2. Reduce your exposure to noise

Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common form of workplace hearing loss. This is often the result of prolonged exposure to sounds that are 85 decibels or louder. Using quieter machines, isolating sources of loud noise, and limiting worker exposure to these noises with frequent breaks are some of the practices that can be implemented to reduce the risk of hearing loss in the workplace.

However, it should be noted that someone can also suffer immediate and permanent hearing loss if they’re exposed to a very brief but very loud sound, such as a gunshot or explosion.

3. Use protective equipment

Another way to reduce your exposure to noise in the workplace is to wear custom-fit earplugs or earmuffs when working in proximity to loud machines and equipment. These reduce the amount of noise that reaches your ears. For jobs that require employees to maintain communication in loud environments, filtered communication molds are an effective solution.

Keep in mind that hearing loss can also be caused by traumatic brain injuries, which may occur as a result of an accident, such as a fall, or improper use of equipment. This is why it’s important to adhere to all safety regulations in the workplace.

4. Learn more about hearing loss

The team of audiologists at Soundwave Hearing Care offers engaging and informative hearing loss prevention seminars and on-site workplace hearing loss accommodation assessments. These resources can help increase awareness about a specific company’s risk factors and the unique needs of its workers. Soundwave Hearing Care also offers on- and off-site corporate group hearing screenings throughout Alberta.

Custom workplace hearing services in Alberta

At Soundwave Hearing Care, we’re committed to helping people protect their hearing and find effective hearing care solutions that meet their needs and lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more about our services, or book an appointment at one of our four clinics in Calgary, Grande Prairie, High River or Lethbridge.