Failure to Wear Adequate Protection May Result in the Need for Hearing Solutions in Calgary

When you work in an industry that exposes you to excessive noise levels, wearing equipment that protects your hearing is crucial.

The failure to do this can result in permanent hearing loss that might easily have been prevented. Although it may be tempting to forego personal protective equipment (PPE) for the sake of convenience, you will likely regret having made such a decision.

If you sometimes neglect to utilize the PPE recommended for your industry, you are not alone. In fact, a recent study revealed that 24 percent of construction workers under the age of 22 do not wear hearing protection on the job. That amounts to one out of four workers in that age group at risk of serious hearing loss in the future. According to data from the same time period, 13 percent of construction workers over 50 don't protect their hearing on the job. The percentage of all other age groups practicing the same habit is 11 percent.

Essentially, that means an unfortunate number of local construction workers will likely need to visit audiology clinics in Calgary in the future.

Why Are So Many Construction Workers Not Wearing Hearing Protection?

The choice to refrain from wearing a protective device is not always a matter of convenience. Here are a few reasons that such a high percentage of workers might not protect their hearing on the job:

1. They do not have access to comfortable equipment.

Being comfortable in any workplace will enable workers to perform better. Physical comfort is especially important for construction workers, who often endure long hours and demanding conditions. Many workers might skip the personal protective gear if it is uncomfortable, so having access to proper hearing protection is imperative.

2. They have not been thoroughly trained.

In some cases, construction industry workers might not have been thoroughly educated about the importance of wearing PPE that protects hearing. Employers must ensure that their workers receive the training they need, so they can make informed decisions related to their hearing and safety in general.

3. They do not know how to wear their hearing protection devices (HPDs).

A construction worker who does not know how to wear an HPD might consequently not want to wear it. Employers should make sure workers know the proper way to wear their equipment.

Protect Yourself and Your Workers with the Right Hearing Solutions in Calgary

Whether you are an employer or a worker in the construction industry, using the right protective equipment is a must. Additionally, people who work in any industry that exposes them to noise should wear PPE for their hearing. If you believe that your hearing may have been affected by your job, be sure to speak with a hearing loss professional as soon as possible.

Soundwave Hearing Care can help you find the hearing protection you need for your industry. If you have sustained hearing loss, we can also assist you in obtaining a suitable hearing device. Feel free to contact us online, or visit us at one of our service locations.