3 Jobs that Need Hearing Protection

Being able to understand one other through verbal communication is something we oftentimes take for granted. The thing about hearing damage is that it is cumulative, so it’s hard to realize that you’re doing damage as you go about your daily activities. It’s wise to schedule a hearing test with an audiologist. Consistent checkups will help you understand the status of your hearing, which will help you take preventative measures against hearing loss. General guidelines say to get tested every three to five years. However, certain careers require a greater cognizance of the health of one’s ear. Exposure to loud noises or a moderate level of noise over a particular length of time can have a detrimental impact on your hearing function. The right hearing protection can preserve your ears from permanent damage and ensure that can still work your job effectively. But what jobs actually need hearing protection?

Factory Workers

A normal conversation between people is about 60 decibels (dB), a lawnmower is about 90dB and factory machinery is 100dB. So, imagine working in a 100,000 square foot factory, where tons of conveyors, air hoses, vacuum tubes and more are competing for the loudest machine of the month award. Research found that 14% of manufacturing industry workers are impaired of hearing. It is so important to use the right type of hearing protection and use it regularly. Foam earplugs are excellent ear protection for factory workers.

Musicians

Research revealed that professional musicians are almost four times as likely to develop noise-induced hearing loss than the general public. They are also 57% more likely to develop tinnitus, an incessant ringing in the ears, as a result of their job. Professional musicians are typically exposed to decibels of 110dB and higher, which over time has been clearly linked to hearing damage. Fortunately, there’s great ear protection for musicians, ones that allow them to hear the music mix directly in their ears, providing a consistent sound that is optimal for performing and sustainable for listening. Whether you are a musician or an avid concertgoer, it is imperative that you take preemptive measures to protect your hearing. Exposure to sounds over 90dB for as short as 15 minutes can cause considerable damage to your hearing.

Carpenters or Woodworkers

In this profession, ear protection isn’t just about noise. Obviously, wearing earmuffs, plugs and other personal protective equipment (PPE) is imperative. However, if you don’t have an effective dust removal system in your workshop, it is even more of a necessity that you use ear protection. Working without protection even for a short period of time allows dust to gather near the eardrum and sawdust is a significant threat to your aural health.