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Effective Hearing Protection for Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Prevention

This guide explains noise-induced hearing loss and the importance of hearing protection. Learn about the types of hearing protection, how to use them correctly, and prevent irreversible damage to your hearing. Protect your ears and maintain your hearing health.

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Effective Hearing Protection for Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Prevention

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  1. HEARING PROTECTION

  2. Noise: Definition Noise= sounds above 85 dB (decibels) Prolonged noise above 85 dB can damage your hearing. How do you know when a sound is too loud?

  3. Noise Levels (dB)

  4. Noise Sources • Machines • Discharging metal objects • Cleaning surfaces with compressed air

  5. Hearing Loss Hearing loss happens when the hair cells in the inner ear become damaged and die.

  6. Hearing Loss Noise-induced hearing loss: Develops gradually Can also be caused by a sudden, extremely loud noise

  7. Hearing Loss Severity of loss depends on: • How loud the noise is • How long you are exposed

  8. Hearing Loss Other causes of hearing loss: • Aging • Wax build-up in the ears • Medications

  9. Hearing Loss • Temporary • Permanent – cannot be corrected with hearing aids

  10. Tinnitus • Hearing ringing, hissing or other sounds • Continuous or intermittent • Temporary or permanent • Permanent – no cure Example #1 Example #2

  11. Hearing Loss: Symptoms • Hard to followconversation in a restaurant, or at a family gathering • Difficulty understanding words that sound similar: dart - cart; prey - tray, claim - blame • Cannot hear people clearly on the phone • Cannot hear the phone ring in a quiet room • Turning the volume up on the radio or TV What did you say?

  12. Hearing Loss • Tell your doctor if you experience ongoing symptoms • A hearing test can detect noise-induced hearing loss • Hearing loss can be stopped if you protect your ears at work and at home

  13. Hearing Protection: Types Ear muffs Ear plugs

  14. Hearing Protection: Ear Muffs Advantages: • Easy to use • Convenient for intermittent use

  15. Hearing Protection: Ear Muffs Disadvantages: • Heavier than plugs • May be uncomfortable in hot environments • Glasses interfere with the seal • More expensive than plugs • Breaking the seal reduces the effectiveness of ear muffs.

  16. Hearing Protection: Ear Plugs Pre-formed: • Designed for repeated use • Easy to use • Banded are ideal for intermittent use Foam: • Disposable • Require more handling • More difficult to use

  17. Inserting Ear Plugs • Roll foam plug • Pull ear back and up • Insert the plug (foam or pre-formed) • Hold foam plugs in place for 10 seconds • Make sure your ear plugs are inserted correctly Incorrect Correct

  18. Ear Plugs • Wash your hands before inserting ear plugs • Do not reuse ear plugs if you can’t clean them • Store ear plugs in a clean and dry place

  19. Ear Muffs • Check ear cups and cushions for signs of wear • Replace damaged parts • Store in a clean and dry place

  20. Hearing Protection: Selection • NRR of at least20 dB • Comfortable and proper fit

  21. Summary • Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable • Permanent hearing loss – can’t fix with hearing aids • Wear hearing protection when you use compressed-air tools • NRR must be at least 20dB • Hearing protection must fit and be used correctly

  22. QUESTIONS?

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