A noisy work environment can be a tough place to work. Loud noises can make it difficult to focus on the task at hand. In addition, constant exposure to excessive noise levels can cause hearing loss.
Your hearing is important, and you need to do everything possible to protect your hearing while you work. If you take the proper precautions, you can lower your risk of hearing loss and stay productive while you’re on the job.
There are many things you can do to protect your hearing while you’re working, such as:
1. Wear Ear Plugs
Earplugs provide a comfortable and discreet way to protect your hearing. They come in many sizes, colors, and designs, and they are easy to wear at work.
Ensure your employer provides earplugs you can wear any time you work. Ear protection is a key part of a safe work environment. So, if you work in construction, manufacturing, or other industries where you’re frequently exposed to loud noises, you should wear earplugs.
2. Wear Ear Muffs
Earmuffs may provide a viable alternative to earplugs. Whereas earplugs provide an airtight seal that helps protect the ear canal, ear muffs fit firmly over the outer ear. As such, earmuffs can help protect your hearing if you cannot find earplugs that fit correctly inside your ears.
You may benefit from simultaneously wearing earplugs and earmuffs, too. This is generally recommended if you work in an environment where noise levels exceed 105 dB — roughly the same noise level produced by a chainsaw or pneumatic drill.
3. Wear Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Noise-canceling headphones are great for workers who want to drown out background noise. They make it simple to listen to music, an audiobook, or a podcast while you work or simply block out external noise altogether.
If you’re concerned about too much noise at work, you can wear noise-canceling headphones. With these headphones at your disposal, you can limit your exposure to noise pollution.
4. Learn How to Properly Wear Ear Protection
If you wear earplugs or other types of ear protection, you need to know how to wear these items properly. Otherwise, you risk damaging your eardrum, which can result in hearing loss.
Consult with your superior for instructions on how to wear ear protection. You’ll want to ensure that your ear protection fits comfortably and won’t fall out of your ears while you’re working. At the same time, your ear protection should not go too deep into your eardrums.
Finally, if you believe you are experiencing hearing loss, don’t wait to seek help. Notify your employer right away and meet with a doctor. This allows you to receive hearing tests and treatment and may help lower your risk of permanent hearing loss.
Explore New Career Opportunities with Techneeds
At Techneeds, we can match you with the right employer based on your skills, experience, and education. To learn more, please call us today at 800-346-8810.