If you’re one of the twenty-million individuals that are subject to dangerous noise-levels on the work site you will want to implement precautionary tactics to counter the danger of hearing loss. You’ll want to be educated on how hearing functions and is measured.
How Damage Occurs
The most prominent form of ear damage is caused by sound. Excessive noise-levels can slowly kill off the nerve cells. So slowly, in fact, that most people don’t notice it occurring until it’s too late and their hearing is gone.
What Does "Too Loud" Mean?
In the average quiet bedroom there are about 20 decibels. When operating a power-saw there are around 110. In accordance with OSHA protocol, there must be hearing protection if you are subject to over 85 dBA for 8 hours or more. Wear auditory protection at all times when the decibel level reaches 90. You know you need hearing-protection if someone talking 2 ft. away is difficult to hear. Other indicators include a resounding ringing of the ears or lessened hearing after you have left the worksite.
Regardless of what you may have heard in the past, your ears don’t gradually get acquainted to noise. Your ears are experiencing the same level of noise
and don’t develop natural protection against high decibel levels. You can make sure your hearing remains healthy by using ear protection and getting your hearing frequently assessed.
NOTE: Always promote a discussion on any of the topics covered in the Tool Box Talks. Should any question arise that you cannot answer, don’t hesitate to contact your Employer.
