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HEARING PROTECTION

HEARING PROTECTION. Noise : Definition. Noise = sounds above 85 dB (decibels) Prolonged noise above 85 dB can damage your hearing. How do you know when a sound is too loud?. Noise Levels (dB). Noise Sources. Machines Discharging metal objects

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HEARING PROTECTION

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  1. HEARING PROTECTION

  2. Noise: Definition Noise= sounds above 85 dB (decibels) Prolonged noise above 85 dB can damage your hearing. How do you know when a sound is too loud?

  3. Noise Levels (dB)

  4. Noise Sources • Machines • Discharging metal objects • Cleaning surfaces with compressed air

  5. Hearing Loss Hearing loss happens when the hair cells in the inner ear become damaged and die.

  6. Hearing Loss Noise-induced hearing loss: Develops gradually Can also be caused by a sudden, extremely loud noise

  7. Hearing Loss Severity of loss depends on: • How loud the noise is • How long you are exposed

  8. Hearing Loss Other causes of hearing loss: • Aging • Wax build-up in the ears • Medications

  9. Hearing Loss • Temporary • Permanent – cannot be corrected with hearing aids

  10. Tinnitus • Hearing ringing, hissing or other sounds • Continuous or intermittent • Temporary or permanent • Permanent – no cure Example #1 Example #2

  11. Hearing Loss: Symptoms • Hard to followconversation in a restaurant, or at a family gathering • Difficulty understanding words that sound similar: dart - cart; prey - tray, claim - blame • Cannot hear people clearly on the phone • Cannot hear the phone ring in a quiet room • Turning the volume up on the radio or TV What did you say?

  12. Hearing Loss • Tell your doctor if you experience ongoing symptoms • A hearing test can detect noise-induced hearing loss • Hearing loss can be stopped if you protect your ears at work and at home

  13. Hearing Protection: Types Ear muffs Ear plugs

  14. Hearing Protection: Ear Muffs Advantages: • Easy to use • Convenient for intermittent use

  15. Hearing Protection: Ear Muffs Disadvantages: • Heavier than plugs • May be uncomfortable in hot environments • Glasses interfere with the seal • More expensive than plugs • Breaking the seal reduces the effectiveness of ear muffs.

  16. Hearing Protection: Ear Plugs Pre-formed: • Designed for repeated use • Easy to use • Banded are ideal for intermittent use Foam: • Disposable • Require more handling • More difficult to use

  17. Inserting Ear Plugs • Roll foam plug • Pull ear back and up • Insert the plug (foam or pre-formed) • Hold foam plugs in place for 10 seconds • Make sure your ear plugs are inserted correctly Incorrect Correct

  18. Ear Plugs • Wash your hands before inserting ear plugs • Do not reuse ear plugs if you can’t clean them • Store ear plugs in a clean and dry place

  19. Ear Muffs • Check ear cups and cushions for signs of wear • Replace damaged parts • Store in a clean and dry place

  20. Hearing Protection: Selection • NRR of at least20 dB • Comfortable and proper fit

  21. Summary • Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable • Permanent hearing loss – can’t fix with hearing aids • Wear hearing protection when you use compressed-air tools • NRR must be at least 20dB • Hearing protection must fit and be used correctly

  22. QUESTIONS?

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