What is occupational noise exposure? Noise, or unwanted sound, is one of the most prominent occupational health problems. It is a by-product of many industrial processes. Sound consists of pressure changes in a medium (usually air), caused by vibration or turbulence. These pressure changes produce waves coming from the turbulent or vibrating source. Exposure to high levels of noise causes hearing loss and may cause other harmful health effects as well. The extent of damage depends primarily on the intensity of the noise and the duration of the exposure.
Noise-induced hearing loss can be temporary or permanent. Temporary hearing loss results from short-term exposures to noise, with normal hearing returning after period of rest. Generally, prolonged exposure to high noise levels over a period of time gradually causes permanent damage. The good news is noise-induced hearing loss can be prevented with hearing protection devices.
Today’s hard working employees have a selection of hearing protection devices including disposable foam earplugs, reusable ear plugs, and ear muffs. Disposable ear plugs provide comfortable hearing protection at a reasonable cost. This type of earplug forms a tight seal for a variety of ear sizes. Reusable ear plugs provide long-term cost savings over disposables. Reusable earplugs require no rolling before inserting.Ear muffs are comfortable protection that employees can wear all day long. They can be used in conjunction with certain earplugs for even higher protection levels. Be sure to get the proper hearing protection device that is right for you.
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