Noise-induced hearing loss is the used to define hearing loss caused by loud noises.It is one of America’s most frequent work-related ailments, affecting millions of workers. NHIL can get triggred by substantial noise exposure or by recurrent exposure to lower noise levels. he reason being that the sound waves damage the inner ear hair cells, resulting in hearing loss over time.
The most prevalent type of NIHL is the one which develops when exposed to loud sounds. NIHL can strike at any time or build gradually over time.
Loud noises commonly cause NIHL at work, but it can also be caused by loud noises in leisure, such as concerts or athletic events, or by using personal audio equipment like headphones.
People who work in noisy areas, such as factories, construction sites, and airports, are more likely to develop an occupational hearing loss.
Ear protection can help reduce noise-induced hearing loss. Earplugs or earmuffs can get used for ear protection. It is critical to wear ear protection in noisy environments and ensure that it fits properly.
Hearing Loss Caused by Noise in the Workplace
Workers exposed to sounds at or over 85 decibels (dB) for an eight-hour workday are at risk for NIHL, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, around 22 million Americans get exposed to harmful noise levels at work, with an estimated $242 million spent on worker’s compensation for hearing loss impairment each year.
Common NIHL symptoms
Noise-induced hearing loss is so common in our society that most people don’t even recognise they have it until it’s too late.
Noise-induced hearing loss manifests itself in five ways:
1. Tinnitus
Tinnitus is a condition in which a person perceives a sound in their ears or brain when no external sound is present. Ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling, or clicking sounds might be continuous or intermittent. Tinnitus affects about one-fifth of persons at some point in their lives.
2. It gets difficult to understand conversational questions in noisy environments.
According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, nearly half of people who work in noisy environments have problems recognizing speech.When the noise intensity hits 100 decibels, this number rises to almost 80%.
In noisy situations, several elements contribute to difficulty interpreting speech. These are some of them:
– The amount of noise present
– The sort of noise
– The individual’s mental state
– The protection gear worn
3. A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears is a common symptom of NIHL. People may hear a ringing, buzzing, or roaring sound in some circumstances. It’s critical to see a doctor if you’re experiencing these symptoms. Earplugs or other noise-cancelling devices can help avoid NIHL.
4.Frequent Ear infections
The majority of ear infections go away on their own after a few days, but some might lead to more severe issues, such as hearing loss.
5. Partial or Total Hearing Loss
Anyone, at any time, can develop hearing loss. It is not a sickness but rather a condition produced by harm to the delicate structures of the ear. Hearing loss can damage one or both ears. Hearing loss can vary in type and severity from person to person.
Noise exposure, ageing, genetics, infections, and head or ear injuries are all potential causes of hearing loss. Hearing loss in the workplace has become increasingly common in recent years. It’s also worth noting that if you have a general hearing problem that worsens due to your work environment, you can still petition for worker’s compensation.
If you have suffered a hearing loss at work, you must be aware of any possible injuries. Visit Pistiolas Workers’ Compensation Attorney or call us at (844) 414-1768 for more information regarding occupational hearing loss and damages.
