Cut Through The Noise! PPE and Hearing Loss

Did you know? Hearing loss is the third most common physical condition in the United States, just behind arthritis and heart disease, and more prevalent than diabetes or cancer. Nearly 13% of U.S. workers suffer from hearing loss. The mining sector has the highest percentage of affected workers with 17% having some form of hearing impairment, while 76% are exposed to hazardous noise that can lead to impairment.

Hazardous noise exists any time you have to shout to be heard by someone an arm’s length away, which occurs quite frequently on a job site. Being conscious of the noise level around you is important. Many people do not realize when they are at risk because, unless accompanied by tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss is typically painless and does not seem like it requires immediate attention. Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is permanent, and many people don’t recognize the value of hearing until it is already gone.

NIHL may be irreversible, but it is also 100% preventable. Wearing proper protection, promoting awareness and implementing training routines to ensure all measures are taken to avoid or reduce exposure to hazardous noise will significantly reduce the risk of hearing loss. The CDC estimates that mining workers lose 3.45 healthy years per 1,000 workers due to hearing loss from occupational noise.

Wearing hearing protection devices such as earplugs and earmuffs whenever the possibility if hazardous noise exists, is the best way to maintain optimal hearing and avoid loss of hearing. Employers can encourage ear protection by offering a variety of options workers can choose from to find one that is most comfortable for them.

Also, all employees should be trained on the risk of noise exposure, how to avoid or reduce exposure and how to recognize hazardous noise. Ongoing training and continuous reminders of the risks and possible outcomes associated with hearing loss would also help with preventative measures. Some training programs even use a hearing loss simulator so employees can get a feel of life with a hearing impairment in the hope they approach this topic with all necessary seriousness.