Work Hazards That Contribute to Hearing Loss

Most people’s jobs present a hazard, one way or another. Being able to be safe from these hazards is a shared responsibility of employees and employers alike. A lot of employers require personal protective equipment and warnings, but being careful about our own safety falls on ourselves.

The hazards that we commonly think of when work is thought about are injuries and death. However, some hazards are more common and may be affecting you right now. Some work-related hazards can have long-term consequences and effects that do not become noticed until it is too late.

What threats do I need to be worried about?

Whether working in the office, a factory, or construction, the hazards posed on hearing are the same. Our hearing is a sense that we have to protect, and losing it may degrade our way of life. Being able to understand the hazards our workplace presents can be an advantage. That way, we will know what we need to do to avoid them or protect ourselves. If these issues have affected you, companies like NewLife Hearing Centre can help you through it.

We have to recognize the dangers our work environment poses to ensure that we know how to protect ourselves. There are a lot of items that can affect our hearing. Here are some things we have to look out for;

Chemicals

Working in a factory, office, or even in the medical or cleaning industry gets you exposed to some chemicals. These substances, like solvents, heavy metals, and asphyxiants, are potent chemicals that can cause hearing loss. Having personal protective equipment when handling these materials is strictly advised, as the effects may be permanent. If you have hearing loss due to exposure, a receiver in the ear be an option.

Loud Noises

We are all familiar with what it is like to be in a concert. The sound systems they use could produce loud noises similar to heavy construction equipment. The ringing sound in your ears is a sign that you are getting ear damage, and this leads to acute hearing loss. Constant exposure could be a problem, as constant exposure can permanently damage your hearing. You can learn more about hearing and what can be done to address it online.

Dust and Pollen

Dust and pollen are also a cause of hearing loss. These small particles may lodge and accumulate in your ear. Hearing loss is temporary, but if these particles cause an infection and ear damage can be experienced, hearing loss may be irreversible.

Earbuds

A lot of people like to listen to podcasts or music when they work. It is an effective means of being focused and isolated to get more work done, but a lot of studies show that using earbuds for prolonged periods can damage your hearing gradually. The effects may be slow, but they are serious and permanent. Using headphones can be a better option if you intend to use them over extended periods of time.

Conclusion

Hearing loss is a prevalent problem in the workplace. Being able to know what causes them is a significant advantage. Prevention of hearing loss needs to be a priority. This prevention can be gained through the utilization of protective equipment and being careful. Losing your hearing is a terrible circumstance, but being careful goes a long way to keeping it.