Industry News

What is Noise Induced Hearing Loss?

By April 29, 2022 No Comments

Noise Induced Hearing Loss is caused by an excessive amount of noise exposure over a long period of time which has caused long-lasting damage. Continuous exposure to noise higher than normal levels causes damage to the hair cells of the cochlea. This overtime can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss.  Symptoms can include:

  • A high-pitched ringing in the ears
  • Muffled or distorted hearing
  • Difficulty hearing in situations where there is background noise.

Common Workplaces That Cause Hearing Loss

Hearing Loss in a workplace is preventable when an employee is provided with the right protection. Employees who regularly use tools with noise levels over 85db are at greater risk, some of these tools include:

  • Table Saw (93dB)
  • Bulldozer (100dB)
  • Impact Wrench (102dB)
  • Chop Saw (105dB)
  • Chain Saw (110dB)
  • Hammer Drill (115dB)
  • Generator (116dB)
  • Hammer on Nail (120dB)
  • Oxygen Torch (121dB)
  • Jackhammer (130dB)

Consistent exposure to 100DB noise levels for more than 1hr a day is significant enough to cause hearing damage. Employers must provide the correct hearing protection to prevent hearing loss when employees are using tools with excessive noise levels.

Key Noise Induced Hearing Loss Statistics

  • Around 51% of construction workers have been exposed to hazardous noise.
  • 25% of construction workers have confirmed material hearing impairments due to this.
  • Around 7% have been diagnosed with tinnitus.
  • Excessive exposure to noise over 85dB can cause hearing damage.
  • 30% of companies are at risk of causing hearing loss to their employees.

Appropriate Hearing Protection

For the reasons identified throughout this article, it’s essential that employers are providing employees appropriate hearing protection. Failure to do so is negligent and can result in significant hearing damage to their employees.

Appropriate hearing protection can include:

  • Various Industrial Earplugs
  • Over the head Earmuffs
  • Smart Hearing solution

If an employee develops hearing loss, as a result of having a noisy occupation and has not received sufficient protection, they’re liable to make a claim for compensation from the company up to three years after being diagnosed with hearing loss.

Industrial Deafness Reports

Here at UKExpertMedical, we work with medical professionals nationwide to support those who have suffered from hearing loss due to a place of work. Over the last 10 years, we instructed more than 40,000 audiologists which form our medico-legal reports on behalf of solicitors seeking support on Medico-Legal cases for Noise-Induced Hearing Loss. And, in keeping with our core values of client care, we arrange tinnitus retraining therapy to support clients who were in need of tinnitus rehabilitation. If you’re suffering from Tinnitus, Hearing Loss or you are a solicitor representing a client and require our services, speak to one of our experts today.

 

 

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