3 Jobs that Need Hearing Protection

Noise-induced hearing loss is a common occupational hazard. It can be caused by working in factories and construction sites, with guns or even in firefighting! Hearing protection is important for these three jobs because they require workers to be exposed to sounds that can damage their hearing over time. There are many types of hearing protection, but the best option is custom earplugs because they will fit your ears perfectly and provide the best possible protection for your ears.

Construction workers, firefighters and gun users all need to protect their hearing. They are especially vulnerable because they work in loud environments. It’s important for them all to consult an audiologist on the best hearing protection for their jobs and workplaces.

1. Factory and Construction Workers

Noise pollution can be a major problem for factory and construction workers. Noise is a common issue in the modern workplace. The close proximity of noise sources and the extreme volume can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus and other health problems. These workers are at high risk for these health issues due to the proximity of their work environment to machinery and equipment that produce high levels of noise. In order to protect themselves from noise pollution, factory and construction workers should wear earplugs or other hearing protection devices and take regular breaks from their work.

2. Firefighters

Firefighters also need protection from loud noises while on the job at a fire scene or responding to an emergency call. This is because they are often close to loud noises and extreme environments. They need ear protection because of the risk of heightened noise pollution and the potential for hearing loss. Earplugs are the most common and cheapest way to protect your hearing from noise. They are inexpensive, easy to get and easy to store. This is important alongside their N95 masks for safety.

3. Gun Users

Gun noise pollution is an issue that has been around for a long time. Shooting guns are one of the loudest sounds on earth with decibels as high as 140 decibels (dB)! It's important to get ear protection when shooting guns, whether you're hunting or practicing at a shooting range. People who shoot guns without ear protection risk permanent damage to their ears. Career wise, this can be professional shooters, cops and hunters. In terms of protection, it’s important to wear earplugs and or earmuffs and be sure to avoid firing rounds at close range to avoid excess noise.

Choosing the Right Hearing Protection for Your Job

If you work in a noisy environment, it's important to protect your hearing. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has strict guidelines for workplace noise levels. OSHA sets the maximum allowable noise exposure at 90dB over an eight-hour period. The best way to protect your hearing is by wearing earplugs or earmuffs that block out all sound. But not all people are comfortable with this option, so it's important to find the right fit for you.

The first thing you should do is speak to an audiologist about which type of hearing protection would be best for your job.