It’s estimated each that each year, thousands of workers in the U.S. suffer from preventable hearing loss due to high workplace noise levels.
Key Statistics on Occupational Hearing Loss
Occupational hearing loss remains a prevalent issue in various industries. Employers have a crucial role in educating employees on the risks associated with exposure to loud noises at work. Your employees are at the forefront of prevention for occupational hearing loss.
Statistics reveal the significant impact of occupational hearing loss on workers’ health, including in both mental health and social aspects. They need to be aware of the risks, symptoms, and their rights, including the latest OHS regulations on hearing PPE.
Hearing Conservation – An Employer’s Role
Employers are responsible for creating and maintain a safer work environment, which includes implementing effective hearing conservation programs. Using eLearning resources decreases your workplace’s vulnerability to Occupational Hearing Loss, by providing proper and effective training you make your employees aware of the preventative measures they can take to protect their hearing.
Your Crucial Role:
- Risk Awareness: Explain the risk of noise exposure in the workplace, including how noise can cause both temporary and permanent hearing loss.
- Preventative Measures: Discuss the measures the company takes to minimize noise exposure, such as maintaining equipment.
- Hearing Protection Usage: Train employees on the correct use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) like earplugs and earmuffs.
What Causes Occupational Hearing Loss (OHL)?
Occupational Hearing Loss (OHL) is a significant health concern that can arise in work environments where employees are exposed to loud noise. Industries of concern include construction, manufacturing, and energy.
Hearing loss is a gradual process. It begins in the high frequencies and spreads to frequencies important for communication. A workers can have measurable OHL and not be “hearing impaired” for regulatory purposes. Fortunately, Occupational Hearing Loss is usually preventable with proper hearing protection and proper safety training resources.
Considerations:
- Noise above 85 decibels is considered hazardous.
- Ototoxic chemicals, including solvents, metals, ad nitriles can cause hearing loss.
- About 22 million workers are exposed to hazardous noise each year.