There’s a hearing protection threshold; have you crossed it?
With the many sounds that we can be exposed to today, from concerts, bars, Internet videos, radios, and so much more, silence is not always so common. Hearing protection is an issue that too many people overlook, but it is worth taking care of. In the employment realm, there is something called the hearing protection threshold. What is the hearing protection threshold?
The Hearing Protection Threshold
The hearing protection threshold is the maximum volume at which people can tolerate sounds without risking hearing loss. Specifically, the hearing protection threshold is 85 decibels, or 85 dBA. 85 dBA is considered the average volume of city street traffic. Higher than this, a noise can become dangerous to hearing health, especially when sustained for a significant period of time.
What This Means for Businesses
The general rule of thumb is that if you are exposed to sound at 90 decibels for 8 hours, you will need to wear hearing protection. The time length decreases as the decibels increase. For example, the time limit for 93 dBA is 6 hours, 4 hours for 95 dBA, and 2 hours for 100 dBA.
Employers are required to adhere to employment standards and provide sufficient hearing protection for all affected employees. For example, construction workers ought to have proper hearing protection on the job from their employer.
What This Means for Individuals
Individuals ought to look out for themselves, armed with this knowledge, and wear hearing protection when necessary. If you attend concerts, dance venues, bars, or other venues that will expose you to high decibel levels, it is best to invest in earplugs, which can be more subtle than you think.
Personal Hearing Protection Tips
You can further take care of your hearing based on your routine physical exercise, diet, and overall health. Caffeine, alcohol, smoking, vaping, and ototoxic medications can increase your risk of hearing loss. Meanwhile, certain foods eaten regularly can enhance and preserve your hearing.
Custom Hearing Protection for Different Circumstances
Clarity Hearing in central Maryland offers custom hearing protection for a variety of circumstances. There are earplugs for musicians, dental staff, recreational target shooters, concert goers, and restaurant enthusiasts. They can be a lifesaver for personal use and a great gift for a professional in your life or another loved one.
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, and Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that are personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.