This presentation covers information on noise, hearing loss and how to protect your ears. Remember, this information applies to the activities you do at school, at work and at home. 1
OSHA defines noise as sounds above 85 db (decibels). Prolonged exposure to noise above 85 db can damage your hearing. All sounds above 85 db are considered loud. So how do you know when a sound is too loud? The rule of thumb is: If you need to raise your voice so that someone standing three feet away can understand what you are saying - you are working in a noisy environment. 2
This chart shows typical noise levels for familiar sounds and work tools. Remember, noise levels above 85 db are potentially harmful. Everything on the chart, other than conversation, is louder than 85 db. 3
Tools and tasks that are loud and may harm your hearing include: Using compressed-air powered tools such as grinders, sanders and ratchets Hammering on bare metal Cleaning or drying surfaces with compressed air 4
Tools themselves can be a source of noise. Noise level information for the tools you use can be found on the manufacturer s product specification sheets like the one shown here. Notice the highlighted information. The tool itself is noisy. When buying new tools look at the specification sheet. To protect your hearing select tools with sound power levels less than 85 db. 5
Hearing loss happens when the tiny hair cells in the inner ear become damaged and die. 6
Typically, noise-induced hearing loss develops gradually, so you may not notice it. However, a sudden, extremely loud noise may also cause temporary or permanent damage. 7
The severity of noise-induced hearing loss depends on: How loud the noise is How long you are exposed to it 8
In addition to loud noise, hearing loss can also be caused by: Aging Wax build-up in the ears Some medications, including aspirin 9
Hearing loss can be temporary or permanent. Over time, temporary hearing loss can become permanent. Permanent hearing loss cannot be corrected with hearing aids. 10
Tinnitus is hearing ringing, hissing or other sounds in your head when there is no external noise source. These sounds can be continuous or intermittent and can vary in loudness. Tinnitus is often worse when background noise is low because you become more aware of it for example at night when you are trying to fall asleep in a quiet room. Tinnitus can be temporary or permanent. Permanent tinnitus has no cure. To hear examples of tinnitus, open the 2 sound files located in the I want to know more folder. 11
Once you begin losing your hearing, it becomes harder to communicate. These are symptoms you might experience: You may find it hard to follow a conversation where these is background noise. For example, in a restaurant, bar, or at a family gathering. You have difficulty understanding words that sound similar. For example: dart vs. cart; prey vs. tray, claim vs. blame. You can t hear people clearly on the phone. You can t hear the phone ringing in a quiet room. You have to keep turning the volume up on the radio or TV. 12
If you experience the symptoms we just discussed, on an ongoing basis, be sure to tell your doctor. A doctor will be able to tell if the hearing loss is a result of noise exposure after conducting a hearing test. Even if you already have some hearing loss, additional damage can be stopped. You must be diligent about protecting your ears at work and at home! 13
You can prevent hearing loss by protecting your ears from loud noise at work and at home. There are two types of hearing protectors - ear muffs and ear plugs. Both types are very effective at reducing your exposure to noise if the hearing protection fits and is used correctly. 14
Ear muffs work by making a seal around your ear to block out the noise. The advantages of using ear muffs include: Ear muffs are easy to use. They are easy to put on and take off. This makes them very convenient for intermittent use. 15
The disadvantages of using ear muffs include: They are heavier than ear plugs. They may be uncomfortable in hot environments. Glasses interfere with the seal and reduce the effectiveness of the muffs. They are more expensive than ear plugs. Breaking the seal (as shown in the photo) reduces the effectiveness of ear muffs. 16
There are two types of ear plugs: preformed and foam. Preformed ear plugs: They are designed for repeated use. They are easy to use. They don t require rolling like the foam plugs. Banded preformed plugs hang around your neck when not in use. They are ideal for intermittent use. Foam ear plugs: They are disposable but they require more handling. You must roll them before putting them into the ear canal. This makes them more difficult to use for short tasks. 17
How to properly insert ear plugs: Roll foam plugs into a tight cylinder. Next, with your free hand pull your ear back and up to straighten the ear canal. Now, insert the foam or preformed ear plug. Hold the foam plug in place for at least 10 seconds, allowing it time to expand. If the plugs are inserted correctly, your environment will be noticeably quieter. You might experience the sense of being in a tunnel and your ear canal will feel full. 18
When using ear plugs: Wash your hands before inserting preformed or foam ear plugs. Don t reuse ear plugs if you can t clean them. Store ear plugs in a clean and dry place. Be sure to dry your ear plugs thoroughly before storing them. 19
Ear muffs require more care than ear plugs. Check the ear cups and cushions for cracks, tears or other signs of wear. Replace damaged or worn ear cushions and foam inserts as needed. Keep your muffs clean and store them in a clean and dry place. 20
When choosing your hearing protection, make sure it has an NRR, noise reduction rating, of at least 20 decibels (db). The NRR tells you how much your noise exposure will be reduced, when the hearing protection is used properly. Your hearing protection should also be comfortable and fit properly. 21
In summary: Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable. Permanent hearing loss can t be fixed with hearing aids. Wear hearing protection when you use compressed-air tools. Hearing protection should have an NRR of at least 20 db. Hearing protection must fit and be used correctly. 22