overview of hearing protection aids
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Published on 30 March 2011
The UK has over 9 million people who are hard of hearing. For the vast majority, the hearing loss is due to age related hearing loss, with noise induced hearing loss also common. Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is caused by sustained exposure to high levels of noise. The degree of any resultant hearing loss will depend on the level of the noise and the duration of exposure.
The first action to take to prevent NIHL is controlling the level of noise at the work place and the secondly to use noise protection where necessary. Any working environment that has noise levels exceeding 85 db should be highlighted and appropriate actions enforced, such as hearing protection being made compulsory. The aim of such measures is to reduce the incoming noise levels to below 70dB.
Which aids are available and how do they work?
Earplugs - these can be custom-made for long term use or disposable. Earplugs are inserted in the ear canal to protect the wearer's hearing from loud noises caused by any number of reasons, mostly from loud machinery. Disposable earplugs can vary person to person in their effectiveness according to the fit in each ear; custom moulded earplugs ensure individual comfort which can help encourage regular use. Earplugs carry an upper ceiling noise reduction rating of 20 db. To find out how noise is measured, read this article.
Benefits: Cost effective, easy to use, reusable (when kept clean) and discreet.
Drawbacks: Limited protection
Protection Ear Muffs - cover the wearer’s outer ear completely and are designed to block out external noise. These can vary in their measured standard which is the noise reduction rating they provide. Too much protection may not be recommended as it may cause isolation leading to work related accidents; therefore some ear muffs include an internal communication system for hearing messages from external devices.
Benefits: Inexpensive in their basic form, easy to fit, even noise protection and comfortable.
Drawbacks: May lead to isolation, hard to use with glasses & earrings and uncomfortable in warm conditions.
With the use of any of these aids, proper training must be given. Training should include information on why hearing protection should be warn, how they should be used including inserting and removing the aid and finally an acclimatisation period should be given.
Article by Joan McKechnie BSc Hons Audiology & Speech Pathology. Joan works for hearing aids company Hearing Direct, which offers a range of hearing protection aids.