Page 84 - OHS, June 2023

HEARING PROTECTION Avoiding Occupational Hearing Loss Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com What are the types of hearing loss, and what can be done to prevent it from happening at work? BY NATE HOLMER Hearing loss prevention and hearing care are year-round concerns, but recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the profile of these pressing issues during World Hearing Day. Every year, WHO chooses a theme for World Hearing Day and creates data-driven material to advocate for hearing safety. Hearing loss affects many individuals worldwide, but perhaps even more in high-noise industrial work environments. Even with a brief amount of exposure, very loud noise can temporarily or permanently damage workers’ inner ears. This damage is called Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) and typically occurs in high-noise work environments where noise exceeds 85 dB(A). Occupational noise-induced hearing loss is also commonly referred to as industrial deafness. NIHL can cause a condition called “tinnitus,” which causes a ringing in the ears of the person affected. This may be a temporary condition, occurring occasionally, or in worst cases, become a permanent condition that is constantly present. Employee safety must always be the top priority in the workplace. When the risk of occupational hazards increases in certain professions, preventative measures to protect employees become increasingly crucial. The risks increase significantly when employees are exposed to consistent loud noise as part of their daily roles. A deep understanding of the causes, effects and prevention measures available can help to protect employees at risk. Loud Noises: One of the Leading Causes of Hearing Loss Loud noises commonly cause hearing loss over time. Specifically, the inner compartments of the ear easily become damaged when the ear is exposed to repeated, regular loud noises over a long period of time.1 Whereas age-related hearing loss happens naturally and gradually over time, noise-induced hearing loss occurs with regular exposure to loud noises. This exposure speeds up the process of natural hearing loss over time. Noise-induced hearing loss occurs due to damage to the cochlea. The cochlea is a coiled, spiral tube section in the inner ear where sensitive hair cells become tarnished. While there are varying degrees of hearing loss, there are three main types of hearing loss. 82 Occupational Health & Safety | JUNE 2023 www.ohsonline.com