Protect your Hearing – 4 Simple Tips
The world is a noisy place. According to a recent report from the Hearing Care Industry Association (HCIA), noise-induced hearing loss is the main source of preventable hearing loss in adults in Australia.
Some noise, especially in the workplace, can cause permanent damage to your hearing and leave you with ‘ringing in the ears’ (known as tinnitus).
These four simple tips will help protect your hearing as you go about your day-to-day activities:
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Protect your ears from loud noises at work
Using ear muffs or specially designed ear plugs can help protect your hearing. This is important if you are constantly exposed to noise at work. The risk of exposure to loud noise is common in many professions including factory and heavy industry workers, transport workers, military personnel, construction workers, fire-fighters, police, miners, farmers,
The risk of exposure to loud noise is common in many professions including factory and heavy industry workers, transport workers, military personnel, construction workers, fire-fighters, police, miners, farmers, musicians and entertainers.
2. Be alert to the risk
Knowing when your hearing is at risk is the first step in protecting your precious hearing.
Your hearing may be damaged if, after being in a noisy place, you experience a buzzing or ringing in the ear. You might also notice that though you can hear people talking, you can’t quite understand Many people also say they experience a “fullness” in the ears after being exposed to excessive noise.
3. Avoid the risk of damage when you’re having fun
Listening to music is one of life’s pleasures. But to avoid damaging your hearing, it’s worth turning the volume down.
If you attend loud concerts or get involved in a recreational activity that involves loud noise, protect your ears with ear plugs.
4. Have your ears tested regularly
A regular hearing check will alert you to any changes in your hearing.
If you work in a noisy environment, we recommend you follow WorkSafe Australia’s 2010 Code of Practice. The Code advises people to have their hearing checked within 3 months of starting a new job, and then every 2 years. Ask your employer to arrange your hearing check-up.
Read more about noise-induced hearing loss here,
If you’re concerned about noise-induced hearing loss, call us for an appointment 1300 HEAR SMART (1300 017 732).
Reference: The Social and Economic Cost of Hearing Loss in Australia (June 2017) HCIA http://www.hcia.com.au/hcia-wp/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Social-and-Economic-Cost-of-Hearing-Health-in-Australia_June-2017.pdf