Protection Of Hearing

Hearing is our most important senses, aiding us in our day to day lives, and playing an important role in our safety. Hearing loss is common as we grow older however hearing loss due to loud noise can be prevented. With growing use of loud music concert and personal headphones we are at risk of damaging our hearing at early age than later. Regular exposure to loud noise will harm your hearing, unless, the necessary precautions are taken.

The human ear is an extremely sensitive organ, able to pick up very low and loud sounds. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dBA): the higher the number, the louder the noise. Any sound over 85dBA can be harmful, especially if you’re exposed to it for a long time.

How loud sounds are:
  • soft voice – 30dBA
  • conversation – 60dBA
  • busy traffic – 70 to 85dBA
  • motorbike – 90dBA
  • listening to music on full volume through headphones – 100 to 110dBA
  • plane taking off – 120dBA

How to Protect Your Hearing

The following measures should always be considered to support the sustainability of your hearing.
  • Any noise that makes your ears ring, a condition known as tinnitus, is too loud.
  • If having trouble communicating with someone three foot away then it is too loud.
  • Use earplugs, earmuffs, or canal caps to protect your hearing.
  • Lower the volume of music players, whether a stereo or personal music player.
  • If a noise is causing you discomfort then it’s too loud.
  • Take a break at loud music concert.
  • Beware of purchasing noisy toys for your children.
  • ‘Noise at Work’ regulations require your employer to keep your hearing protected.
  • If you increase your distance from the source of sound, you diminish the chance of harm to your hearing.
  • Wear ear protectors when working on loud construction site, working in mining and digging area.

Ear Protection

There are several forms of hearing protection available.
Earplugs

Earplugs are fixed into the ear canal in order to protect your hearing. You need to make sure the earplugs are put in correctly, and that they fit properly, or they may not provide sufficient protection. They are available for both adults and children, and depending on the type, can be used to defend against loud noises, or when swimming.

Earmuffs

Earmuffs cover the ears to provide protection for your hearing. You need to make sure they are securely fit, that they are firmly sealed. These are a necessity if working with loud machinery.

Custom made ear plugs

Your audiologist can take impression of your ears in order to make ear plugs required to your need.