Could your job eventually cause deafness?
As many as 52 million Americans face working conditions that could trigger hearing problems, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Be sure to take precautions if your occupation appears on this list:
8 Risky Professions For Your Ears
1. Western New York’s moist climate ensures that lawn maintenance workers remain busy during the spring, summer and autumn months. Unfortunately, mowing equipment often produces enough noise to harm a person’s ears. Sound levels frequently exceed 105 decibels.
2. The Empire State’s farmers use loud machines every day. Among other equipment, a farm’s combines, grain dryers, tractors and trucks can generate considerable amounts of noise. Hearing loss could also occur after prolonged exposure to the sounds of numerous animals in a barn.
3. Carpenters operate power tools that create tremendous amounts of noise. For instance, the sound levels produced by rotary hammers can exceed 115 decibels. Most other types of construction jobs put workers’ ears in danger as well.
4. Although people usually focus on their physical safety, race car drivers and pit crews also face the risk of hearing loss. Roaring engines may yield sound levels as high as 135 decibels, and crashes generate sudden bursts of noise.
5. Soldiers often suffer hearing problems as a result of war-zone conditions. Loud engines, automatic weapons, sonic booms and explosives can cause noise levels to surpass 175 decibels. It’s difficult to provide military personnel with adequate ear protection.
6. Police work exposes New York’s officers to excessive noise when they fire guns, engage in high-speed chases and monitor large demonstrations. Patrolmen on motorcycles don’t have doors or windows to protect them from siren and engine noise.
7. The majority of factory workers eventually experience hearing difficulties. Manufacturing personnel must listen to noisy machines throughout the day, so ear problems can easily develop in less than a decade.
8. Many musicians use powerful amplifiers that exceed 110 decibels. Loud music also affects anyone who works at a performance venue. You might need hearing aids in the future if you’re a waiter, bartender, disc jockey, bouncer or nightclub manager.
Effective Ways to Prevent Deafness
Hearing loss can affect people with occupations that range from mining to child care. Fortunately, you may reduce or prevent it by taking steps to protect your ears. Always try to avoid noise levels that exceed 80 decibels.
Rubber or foam earplugs will protect you from moderate levels of noise. You may need to completely cover your ears with earmuffs in particularly loud places. Race car drivers and musicians benefit from specialized ear protection products.
Ken-Ton Hearing can test your ears to determine if you need hearing aids, medical treatment or better ear protection. We have been caring for the hearing health of Western New Yorker’s for more than 35 years. Call us today!