If you work in an environment where workplace noise and vibration is all around you and you’re not properly protected, you might be heading for early onset hearing loss, a permanent health complaint that can be prevented with the right tools and assessments.
In the UK, workday routines for many can mean exposing themselves to the hidden dangers of noise and vibration. In 2006, the HSE bought out regulations for the control of noise in the workplace, their aim being to protect workers hearing from permanent damage.
As a business it is your responsibility to make sure that you are up to date with any noise and vibration assessments and that any methods to reduce noise are regularly updated, as well as providing regular hearing tests to your most vulnerable staff.
Risks
Hand tools, methods and equipment may cause vibration up to the arms and hands. These include;
- Hammering
- Drop forging
- Pneumatic impact tools etc
- Drills
- Chainsaws
- Explosives like cartridge-operated tools, detonators, or guns
What to look out for
Early signs and symptoms of hearing loss may be subtle at first, but if members of staff are frequently complaining of these symptoms you probably need to organise a noise and vibration assessment quickly.
- Finding that conversations with family and friends are becoming hard to follow
- Family complaining that the TV or radio is too loud
- Difficulty using the telephone, or finding that you have to turn it up
- Tinnitus – a permanent ringing, buzzing or humming in the ears. This is a serious complaint and should be checked out by a health professional ASAP.
Sadly we can’t help once the hearing loss has already occurred, but we can help to prevent it. Send an enquiry to find out more.
