Noise-induced hearing loss: what it is and how to prevent it

Ruth Nixon, Account Manager at Radiocoms Systems Ltd, sheds light on noise-induced hearing loss and how it can be prevented.

What is noise-induced hearing loss?

It’s temporary or permanent damage to the tiny hairs in our inner ears that are meant to pick up sound vibrations and relay them to the brain for interpretation. The louder the sound, the more the damage – but prolonged exposure to noise levels most of us are familiar with can also cause permanent hearing loss. 

What noise levels can cause damage?

Explosions can harm your hearing due to their intensity, but it’s also crucial to be aware that prolonged exposure to any noise over 85 decibels can cause gradual hearing damage. Initially, you might not notice the effects, but they often develop into hearing difficulties over time. Examples of sounds that exceed this threshold include.

• Industrial Machinery: Heavy-duty engines and mechanical operations.
• Construction Equipment: Tools such as jackhammers, drills, and heavy loaders commonly produce high levels of noise.
• Manufacturing Processes: Assembly lines, stamping machines, and production equipment can contribute to prolonged exposure.
• Airports: The sounds from aircraft taking off and landing, as well as the operation of ground support equipment, can create significant noise exposure.
• Transport Hubs: The operation of forklifts, conveyor belts, and other logistical equipment in warehouses and distribution centers.

With the exception of noise-induced hearing loss from very loud sounds, most people can tolerate occasional exposure to loud noises. However, for those who work in noisy environments, the risk of hearing loss that seriously affects their lives is high. Unfortunately, there is no cure for noise-induced hearing loss, but it can be prevented. 

Noise-induced hearing loss statistics

Evidence shows that workplace noise exposure is a significant concern, with the Health and Safety Executive reporting that around 17,000 people in the UK are living with deafness or tinnitus as a direct result. Additionally, the Association for Primary Care Audiology Providers estimates that approximately 4 percent of those experiencing hearing loss are affected by noise-induced hearing loss.

This makes it the second leading cause of hearing loss, following age-related loss. This is particularly concerning because, in most instances, it can be completely prevented. Industries where this type of hearing loss is common include manufacturing, construction, and transportation. 

Noise protection at work and the law

UK law recognises the need for employers to help workers protect their hearing. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations (2005) specify that:

• Hearing protection zones should be clearly indicated with signs.
• Noise levels of 85 decibels on average during a week or a day call for hearing protection.
• At average noise levels of 80 decibels, employees must receive training on the prevention of noise-induced hearing loss.
• Workers must never be exposed to noise levels higher than 87 decibels, even after accounting for the noise reduction provided by hearing protection.

Protecting workers from hearing loss is, therefore, a serious consideration in many industries and requires employee training programmes and the provision of ear protection as part of PPE. 

Noise-induced hearing loss claims

The Department for Work and Pensions offers guidance for workers looking to file noise-induced hearing loss claims. According to the department, it actively contacts employers to determine the causes of such damage. Under the law, workers have a three-year timeframe to file lawsuits after becoming aware of their hearing loss. Should employers be found negligent, they could face substantial fines and compensation payouts.

Noise-induced hearing loss protection

Often, the simplest solutions prove to be the most practical. Options like removing workers from high-noise areas or implementing quieter machinery are worthwhile. But with a threshold of just 85 decibels posing a risk, these solutions aren’t always practical. For instance, routine tasks such as managing cargo at an airport or overseeing production lines in factories frequently exceed safe noise levels, risking long-term hearing damage with sustained exposure.

That leaves employers with noise protection PPE as the only way to continue work without risking workers’ long-term hearing. Factors to consider include the amount of protection offered and wearer comfort. This scenario means workers might have to wear noise protection for an entire shift (up to 12 hours), all while performing physically demanding tasks. 

There is an additional challenge to bear in mind. Employees may need to communicate or receive critical information while wearing hearing protection. Fortunately, there are solutions that allow you to protect employees’ hearing while simultaneously enhancing communication. 

Radiocoms recommends 3M Peltor Headsets

At Radiocoms, we take care of the communication needs of businesses across the spectrum. From airports to manufacturing, we frequently encounter the twin aims of hearing protection that allows for clear communication. 

3M’s Peltor headsets provide user comfort and 27 to 37 decibels of noise reduction. The wireless headsets have noise-canceling microphones and allow for hands-free operation, helping your workers stay safe and in touch in the noisiest environments. Remarkably, these headsets use environmental listening technology to provide protection when needed while allowing users to hear what is going on around them at times when noise levels are lower. 

For operation in environments where noise is not the only hazard, they can be combined with 3M’s Versaflo respirator, which includes full facial protection. Truly, this is a solution for the most demanding workplace conditions. 

Radiocoms: for all your workplace communications solutions

With expertise spanning five decades in communication technologies, we’ve supported a diverse range of organisations in choosing and implementing the right solutions for their work environments. To us, this means equipping workplaces with environments and tools that ensure employees feel protected and safe. Whilst our commitment ensures you receive reliable hardware, cutting-edge technologies, and the comprehensive support needed to fully leverage your communication systems. 

If you’re facing workplace communication challenges, we can help. Read our customer stories to learn more, and contact our expert consultants to find the solution that works for you.