We are exposed to noise each and every day of our lives. Some sounds are quiet, some are loud and some are actually damaging to our hearing. What many people don’t know is that some of the decibel levels they are exposed to can and will begin to cause hearing loss or damage, especially if you work somewhere that you might be exposed to loud noise on a continual basis.
Bar workers and DJs – we are talking to you here – its not just construction workers and aircraft marshals that need to take care of their ears.
So how loud is too loud? To give you a better idea of decibel levels and the levels of exposure required to cause damage, we have outlined some examples below. When reading, bear in mind that the HSE advises that the safe limit is 85 decibels for eight hours a day before the onset of hearing damage and/or problems. Below you can see that the average decibel level of a nightclub is 100.
(Info graphic from action for hearing loss)
It is really important that you make sure you are wearing adequate hearing protection if you are exposed to loud noise on a continual basis. While we don’t want to be a bore – we all enjoy our music – but what might have an impact is the reality of hearing loss. Not sure what it’s like? Listen to this audio demonstration of noise induced hearing loss.
If you are worried about hearing loss, you can check out some of the symptoms here.
The best course of action is prevention. It’s always better to prevent hearing loss and damage, because once its there, it isn’t usually repairable. Most people find that small earplugs, which are barely noticeable, do the job of protecting your hearing nicely.
If you would like further information on what ear protection you should be wearing or if you would like to book a hearing test, contact the team at Bryce Hearing on 01224 647652.
