We often take our good hearing for granted. Many people start to lose their hearing gradually without noticing it. By the time they realize they are having problems hearing normal conversations, it’s too late to take preventative actions. Once your hearing is lost, you can’t replace it.

Noise is measured in decibels (dB). The higher the number of decibels, the louder the noise. If you’re repeatedly exposed to sounds approaching 90 dB over 8-hour periods you risk hearing loss. Loud noises break down tiny parts of the ear that conduct sound.. Although many people wear proper ear protection at the worksite, at home they may expose themselves to dangerously high noise levels. Remember that loud noises for even a short time can damage the ear.

Examples of noise levels are:

• Jet plane 140 dB (noises over 140 dB will cause pain)
• Gunshot 140
• Chain saw 110
• Snoring up to 90 (for the real loud ones)
• Noisy restaurant 80
• Street sounds 70
• Average around the home 50

Signs of possible hearing problems:

• You have trouble hearing people when they speak
• To hear the radio or TV you have to turn the volume up so high that other people complain
• You have difficulty hearing certain sounds, such as those that are high pitched. Some sounds may seem muffled
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

If you have any of the above signs, see you physician, who can send you for a hearing test. Many companies test their employees’ hearing. Early recognition of hearing loss is important.

Protect your hearing

• Wear proper hearing protection when working around noises, such as, cutting the lawn or using power tools.
• Be cautious when using headphones. No one else should be able to hear the music you’re listening to. If they can, it’s to loud.
• When listening to music make sure you can hear other sounds over it. If you can’t, it’s too loud. Make your children aware of the hazards of loud music.
• Don’t forget your hearing protection for shooting practice, attending motorcycle or car races, or other activities where there are loud noises.

Copyright 1997 Safety Health Publishing Inc.

Martin Lesperance is a fire fighter/paramedic and is the author of the best selling book "I Won’t be in to Work Today – Preventing Injuries at Home, Work and Play" Martin delivers keynote presentations dealing with injury prevention. His talks are funny, but still have a strong underlying message. Visit his website at www.safete.com