Hearing loss affects an estimated 10 million people in the UK. These figures are based on the work of ‘Action On Hearing Loss’ an organisation that aims to put hearing loss on the public agenda. In its findings, Action On Hearing Loss notes that the two most common reasons for hearing loss in the UK are age-related (presbycusis) and noise-induced (NIHL). While age-related hearing loss is not preventable, noise-induced hearing loss is very much preventable.
Age-related hearing loss is a result of the natural aging process and one which people may begin to experience from the age of 40 onwards, and can usually do little about. On the other hand, noise-induced hearing loss may affect people at any age and it may result in mild to severe hearing loss. The level of hearing loss caused by from noise exposure will vary based on the level of noise and the duration of the exposure. Noise-induced hearing loss can further be described as belonging to two different categories:
Acoustic trauma – In this case, hearing loss is caused by an extremely loud sound source. For example, a loud explosion very near the ear may result in acoustic trauma.
Gradual/Increasing noise induced loss – In this case, hearing loss is caused by repeated and sustained exposure to noise typically over 85dB.
Noise Damage Explained:
The ear is a complex organ where a number of parts are responsible for capturing waves of sound that are then translated into signals to the brain to make sense of. As a result of harmful levels of noise, one part of the ear in particular can be damaged beyond recovery. These are the small sensory cells called hair cells housed in the cochlea that send nerve signals to the brain. These may deteriorate due to the natural ageing process (age-related hearing loss) and or from harmful levels of noise. As the hair cells cannot regrow naturally, noise-induced hearing loss is permanent. The effects of the damage can be managed, but not cured making it so important to avoid in the first place.
Preventing Noise-Induced Hearing Loss:
In most cases, noise-induced hearing loss takes place at work. Preventing hearing loss from noise is not simply a recommendation for employers; law under the 2005 noise regulations covers it. Prevention starts with the sound/noise in an environment being measured. Sound is measured using sound meters and other noise measuring equipment. Areas with average sound levels exceeding 80dB to 85dB must be the targets of noise reduction control.
Areas with average noise of 80dB – Those employees working in such areas for their shifts must be aware of the dangers of noise-induced hearing loss. Hearing protection in the form of earplugs and earmuffs must be made available. Training on using hearing protection must be given. Noise levels to be regularly monitored.
Areas with average sounds of 85dB - In such areas, hearing protection is mandatory and to be warn by all. Employers should investigate moving to quieter machinery and processes. Sound reduction equipment to be fitted and the danger of exposure to harmful sounds clearly marked and sign posted.
It is important to create more awareness as to the danger of noise. Hearing loss in many cases causes permanent disability that can be managed, but not cured.
Bio: Joan McKechnie BSc Hons Audiology & Speech Pathology at digital hearing aids company Hearing Direct. The company offers aids for the deaf and hard of hearing from telephones for the hard of hearing to alerting devices for the deaf.
