May is better hearing month and we would like to remind you how important it is to protect your hearing while on the job. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 22 million American workers are exposed to hazardous noise on the job, while another 9 million are at risk for hearing loss from agents (e.g. solvents, metals). They also state that an estimated 24% of hearing loss in the United States has been attributed to workplace exposure.
Workplace Noise Levels
Noise may be a problem in your workplace if you:
Hear ringing or humming in your ears when you leave work.
Have to shout to be heard by a coworker an arm's length away.
Experience temporary hearing loss when leaving work.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has a Sound Level Meter App available to the public to download on mobile iOS devices that will measure sound levels in the workplace and provides noise exposure parameters to help reduce occupational noise-induced hearing loss. Hearing protection such as earplugs or noise protection headsets, should always be available to workers who operate or work around any type of loud equipment. It is also recommended that workers get their hearing checked regularly by a certified CAOHC technician. Here at Worker Care we have 2 certified CAOHC technicians available to assist your employees. For more information or to schedule and appointment please call us at 509-575-2949.