Hearing Protection Tips

Whether you have perfect hearing or are experiencing hearing problems, you should make every effort possible to protect your ears from situations that present potentially dangerous conditions. By following some simple hearing protection tips, you will be able to drastically decrease, if not altogether eliminate, potential assaults on your hearing.

The first tip is to wear hearing protection, whether it’s electronic hearing protection, Peltor hearing protection, ear muff style hearing protection, Howard Leight hearing protection, industrial hearing protection or some form of custom-made hearing protection, whenever possible in environments where there are inclement weather conditions, loud noises or when engaging in contact sports. Make sure whatever ear protection you purchase fits properly so as to guarantee maximum protection.

As mentioned, noise is one of the most common causes behind hearing loss. Your inner ear is very sensitive and it can be damaged by both brief and very intense sounds and constant exposure to not-so intense, but still excessive, sounds. This means that you should take all precautions possible and behave as though hearing protection were required to avoid exposing your ear to excessive sound levels.

Musicians should invest in custom-molded hearing protection earplugs for musicians as constant exposure to music will almost always lead to some level of hearing loss. Make sure any audio devices you use are kept at a safe volume and respect exposure limits with hearing protection devices on as well; you can use electronic hearing protection for radio listening that’s safe and hearing protection ear muffs to operate excessively noisy appliances.

Experts agree that if you’re forced to raise your voice to speak or communicate, then you are being exposed to hazardous noise levels. Audiologists recommend that people try to limit their exposure to sounds over 85 decibels as much as possible; this includes motorcycles, leaf blowers, lawn mowers, hair dryers, small firecrackers, rock concerts and ambulance sirens. Any sound over 115 decibels is a serious hazard to your hearing, no matter what the exposure time.

Experts also suggest that if you must deal with noisy environments on a regular basis, it’s a good idea to step away every once in a while and find a quiet spot to rest your ears for about 15 to 20 minutes. When buying household appliances, tools and even children’s toys, make sure you check the noise rating and purchase the least noisy model; if you can’t find a noise rating, contact the manufacturer. This will help with child hearing protection as well.

Make sure you see an audiologist on a regular basis to check your hearing, get a hearing protection evaluation and discuss tips on how to minimize exposure to unhealthy hearing conditions. Make sure that your workplace is following Federal OSHA regulations regarding noise levels and protection. Talk to members of your community to set up noise ordinances and educate others on the dangerous of excessive noise; think about putting up a hearing protection sign or two in areas where noise pollution is excessive.