Hearing Protection to Enhance Productivity in High Noise Environments

Hearing Protection to Enhance Productivity in High Noise Environments
Excessive noise exposure is the most common cause of hearing loss. There are several high-risk
careers that cause occupational hearing loss and many workers who are exposed to loud
sounds are at a risk for hearing loss. Every day, these workers are put in extreme working
conditions, sometimes resulting in irreversible and severe hearing loss due to improper use or
lack of hearing protection. Hearing impairment due to noise pollution can either be temporary
or permanent. When the ear is exposed to extreme loud noise (above 100 decibels) for a
considerable period of time, it can cause irreparable damage and lead to permanent hearing
loss.

If you work in a high noise environment, wearing a hearing protection device will not only
protect your hearing but also aid in concentration and focus. Usually when workers cannot
communicate seamlessly and accurately in high noise environments, productivity suffers.
Efficient high noise communication can have a direct influence on productivity. Research shows
that over 40% of workers lose over 30 minutes a day from trying to communicate in high noise
environments, thus hampering the productivity of employees. Workers struggle to
communicate effectively in high noise because of the time lost moving to quieter areas, time
lost with the complexity of communicating in high noise, time lost taking hearing protection off
and on and time lost dealing with missed cell phone or two-way radio calls.

Providing appropriate hearing protection devices may seem like a straightforward solution in a
comprehensive hearing conservation program, but the fact is that fewer personnel are wearing
these HPDs due to improper selection and thus exposing themselves to potential hearing loss. It
is found that the single biggest reason why people remove or avoid wearing hearing protection
is the need to communicate with others. When the hearing protection is removed, wearers can
be exposed to dangerous levels of noise that can result in noise induced hearing loss (NIHL).

No hearing protection device can be effective if safety precautions are not taken and rules not
followed. Proper hearing protection is mandatory in workplaces where noise levels exceed the
maximum noise standards as set by OSHA. Earplugs and earmuffs help protect ears from loud
noises. If you need effective hearing protection in high noise environments, it is best to consult
with your employer or visit the OSHA hearing protection areas to determine the best hearing
protection device for your situation.

NIHL is completely preventable. All individuals need to understand the hazards of noise and
protect their ear health, with earplugs or other hearing protective devices when involved in a
loud activity.
Know more on:
safety ear muffs
electronic ear plugs

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