Education and Thought Leadership
Education and Thought Leadership
June 19, 2024

Everyday Ways to Protect Your Hearing

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Hearing is one of life’s greatest gifts, yet it’s quietly under threat every day. From workplace noise to weekend concerts, the sounds we love can take a toll on our hearing if we’re not careful.

The good news? You don’t have to overhaul your life to protect it. Small, intentional steps, during and outside of work, can keep your hearing sharp for years to come. Here’s how.

During Work: Protecting Your Hearing on the Job

Whether you’re on a busy factory floor or in a buzzing open office, your ears are constantly on duty. Unlike other senses, hearing can’t be turned off, not even when you’re asleep. That’s why consistent protection matters.

Know Your Noise Zones
Noise isn’t always obvious. Machinery, HVAC systems, even a crowded workspace can quietly raise sound levels into risky territory. Start by identifying noise hot spots and stay aware of your exposure.

Wear Protection, and Wear It Right
Hearing protection only works if you use it, and use it correctly. Foam earplugs, for example, can be surprisingly ineffective if they aren’t inserted properly. A secure, snug fit is essential to truly shield your hearing.

Lead by Example
When you make hearing protection part of your routine, it sets a new standard for your team and your workplace culture.

Outside of Work: Everyday Strategies for Lifelong Hearing Health

Your hearing doesn’t clock out when your shift ends. The noise of everyday life, commuting, social outings, entertainment, adds up. Here's how to keep protecting what you love.

Use Volume Limits on Devices
Set your devices to max out at 60% volume. Stick to the 60/60 rule: no more than 60 minutes of listening at 60% volume for safer, sustainable hearing habits.

Always Be Prepared
Earplugs are small but mighty. Keep a pair with you to concerts, games, or any event where noise levels soar. You’ll enjoy every moment without putting your hearing at risk.

Take Listening Breaks
Give your ears breathing room. Scheduling intentional quiet time, like a tech-free walk, turning down the volume in the car, or simply enjoying silence at home helps reduce cumulative damage over time.

Schedule Hearing Checkups
Your hearing deserves the same care as your physical health. At a minimum, annual screenings can catch issues early and help you stay on top of your health. Access to hearing health benefits through your company can make it even easier to stay proactive.

Key Takeaways

💡 How can we protect our hearing health?
By consistently reducing exposure to loud noise, using proper hearing protection, and giving our ears regular quiet time to recover.

💡 What are some ways to avoid hearing loss?
Turn down device volumes, use ear protection in noisy environments, limit exposure time, and schedule regular hearing checkups.

💡 How to protect hearing as you age?
Prioritize hearing-friendly habits early, such as manage noise exposure, wear protection when needed, and monitor hearing health annually.

💡 What is the best form of ear protection?
The best protection is the one you’ll actually use. Earplugs or custom-fit solutions offer both effectiveness and comfort.

Request a Quote for Audiometric Testing

Please fill out the form to the right to request information for audiometric testing. If you would to watch or schedule a demo, please see below:

Join other EHS & Safety teams on simplifying their hearing conservation program.

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