Shhh! The Secret to Preventing 100% of Workplace Hearing Loss

Exposure to loud noise is one of the leading causes of hearing loss in the workplace, and it is a common misconception that it is an unavoidable consequence of certain jobs. However, the truth is that hearing loss is preventable in the workplace through a combination of engineering controls, administrative controls, and a comprehensive hearing conservation program.

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) happens when structures and nerve fibers in the inner ear that respond to sound get damaged. This condition is typically caused by exposure to sounds that are excessively loud, and it cannot be corrected through medical or surgical procedures. Such hearing loss can occur due to a single exposure to an extremely loud sound, blast, or impulse, or from prolonged exposure to loud sounds.

Despite being a preventable condition, noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is still prevalent in many working areas, and the number of cases is growing. In overall statistics in all US Industries, 25% of all workers have been exposed to hazardous noise with 14% or 22 million cases each year caused by occupational exposure. This means that these workers are exposed to loud noise and this can be attributed to several factors that are specific to work-related settings.

“There are 22 million cases of noise-induced hearing loss each year from occupational exposure. ”

— NIOSH (Part of the CDC)

One major reason is that some jobs require exposure to loud noises, such as construction and mining sites, factories, and even in transportation areas such as terminals and airports.  In 2019, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that potentially damaging noise levels put 18 million workers at risk and produced 14,500 cases of work-related hearing loss. In such environments, it can be challenging to control the noise levels, and hearing protection may not be used consistently or correctly.

In 2015, the National Safety Council found that one third of American workers believe that their employers place a higher value on productivity than they do on safety. In some workplaces, there may be a culture that emphasizes productivity over safety, which can lead workers to take shortcuts or ignore safety protocols, including the use of hearing protection.

Moreover, some employers may not have comprehensive hearing conservation programs in place or may not prioritize the issue, which can result in workers being exposed to dangerous noise levels without adequate protection.

Lastly, some workers may be more susceptible to hearing loss due to genetic or medical factors, making them more vulnerable to the effects of noise exposure despite taking preventative measures.

According to the study of The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, approximately 33% of working-age adults with a history of occupational noise exposure have audiometric evidence of noise-induced hearing damage, and 16% of noise-exposed workers have material hearing impairment.

Occupational noise exposure is regulated in most developed countries, including the U.S. Hearing loss from noise is nearly always preventable. However, lack of emphasis on noise control, over-reliance on hearing protection, inability to identify early indications of hearing damage, contribute to the continuing high burden of hearing loss among noise-exposed workers.

From a public health perspective, preventing hearing loss is crucial, neglecting it can lead to reduced productivity, job satisfaction, and quality of life for workers.

World Health Organization data shows that over 5% of the world’s population – or 430 million people – require rehabilitation to address their ‘disabling’ hearing loss. It urges the need for employers and policymakers to prioritize the prevention of hearing loss and implement appropriate measures to protect workers from excessive noise exposure.

Understanding Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) occurs when excessive exposure to loud noise damages the delicate structures within the inner ear that are responsible for hearing. The degree of hearing loss that results from noise exposure depends on several factors, including the intensity and duration of the noise, as well as individual susceptibility.

When sound waves are too loud, they can cause the hair cells to vibrate excessively, leading to damage or even death of the hair cells.

The loss of hair cells in the inner ear can have a profound impact on a person's ability to hear and understand speech, as well as their ability to hear certain sounds or frequencies. The NIH/NIDCD asserts that most NIHL is caused by the damage and eventual death of these hair cells. Unlike bird and amphibian hair cells, human hair cells don’t grow back. They are gone for good. This means that any hearing loss that results from damage to the hair cells is permanent.

Not all noises are harmful; however, sounds that are too loud, too close, or too long can cause hearing loss. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets guidelines for safe exposure to noise in the workplace, while the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends safe noise levels for recreational activities. Wearing hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, can also help to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.

There are two types of noise-induced hearing loss: temporary threshold shift (TTS) and permanent threshold shift (PTS).

• Temporary threshold shift (TTS): TTS is a temporary hearing loss that occurs after exposure to loud noise. This type of hearing loss is usually temporary and can last for a few hours to a few days. TTS is caused by the temporary fatigue or "exhaustion" of the hair cells in the inner ear due to excessive noise exposure. In many cases, the hearing returns to normal after a period of rest.
• Permanent threshold shift (PTS): PTS is a permanent hearing loss that results from the damage or destruction of the hair cells in the inner ear. This type of hearing loss is irreversible and can worsen over time with continued exposure to loud noise. The severity of PTS can vary from mild to profound, depending on the extent of the damage to the hair cells. PTS usually affects the high-frequency hearing first, making it difficult to hear high-pitched sounds such as birds singing or a telephone ringing.

It's important to note that the symptoms and effects of hearing loss can vary widely, and some people may not even realize they have a hearing loss until it has progressed to a more severe stage. Early detection and treatment can help to minimize the impact of hearing loss on a person's overall health.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) identifies ten (10) signs of hearing loss caused by noise exposure and may experience the following signs and symptoms:

• Speech and other sounds seem muffled.
• Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds (e.g., birds, doorbell, telephone, alarm clock).
• Trouble understanding conversations when in a noisy place, such as a restaurant.
• Trouble understanding speech over the phone.
• Trouble hearing speech consonants (e.g., trouble hearing the difference between s and f, between p and t, or between sh and th in speech).
• Asking others to speak more slowly and clearly.
• Asking someone to speak more loudly or repeat what they said.
• Turning up the volume of the television or radio.
• Ringing in the ears.
• Hypersensitivity to certain sounds (certain sounds are very bothersome or create pain).

These signs and symptoms can occur gradually over time or suddenly, depending on the individual's level and duration of noise exposure. The CDC recommends that individuals who experience any of these signs or symptoms should seek medical attention from a healthcare provider or audiologist.

How to Prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

The ability to hear is essential for communication, social interaction, and safety, and when hearing loss occurs, it can lead to isolation, depression, and even cognitive decline. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to prevent hearing loss:

Engineering controls are methods of reducing noise levels at the source. To protect workers from hazardous conditions, engineering controls can be implemented to either remove the hazard or create a physical barrier between the worker and the hazard.

Most effective noise engineering controls are:

• Sound insulation
• Noise barriers
• Silencers
• Equipment modification

NIOSH researchers emphasize that while the initial cost of engineering controls may be higher than other control methods, in the long term, they can provide cost savings in other areas of the process, resulting in lower operating costs. These measures can provide a safe and healthy work environment for employees, improve productivity, and ultimately result in cost savings for the employer.

Administrative controls are methods of reducing the amount of time that workers are exposed to loud noise. It addresses the behavioral and organizational aspects of noise management. These measures can be effective in reducing exposure to noise and preventing hearing loss when implemented properly.

Some examples of administrative controls that can be used to manage noise in the workplace include:

• Job rotation scheduling
• Training
• Worksite monitoring
• Maintenance and repair

The hierarchy of controls by NIOSH asserts that administrative controls can be an effective means of reducing noise exposure and preventing hearing loss, but they do have limitations. They are reliant on worker compliance and can be challenging to implement consistently. As such, administrative controls are most effective when used in combination with other control measures, such as engineering controls and personal protective equipment, as part of a comprehensive hearing conservation program.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards and can also be used to prevent NIHL. This includes earplugs and earmuffs, which can help reduce the amount of noise that reaches the inner ear. OSHA requires that many categories of personal protective equipment meet or be equivalent to standards developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

However, NIOSH highlights that employers should not rely on PPE alone to control hazards when other effective control options are available. PPE can be effective, but only when workers use it correctly and consistently. PPE might seem to be less expensive than other controls, but can be costly over time. This is especially true when used for multiple workers on a daily basis.

Finally, employee training and education are essential for preventing NIHL. Workers should be trained on the risks of exposure to loud noise and the steps they can take to protect themselves. This can include information on the proper use of PPE, the importance of taking breaks from noisy environments, and the signs and symptoms of NIHL.

Importance of a Hearing Conservation Program

A hearing conservation program is a set of measures taken by employers to protect workers from hearing loss due to exposure to high levels of noise in the workplace. An HCP requires that employers establish a hearing conservation program for employees whose noise exposures equal or exceed an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) of 85 The goal of a hearing conservation program is to prevent noise-induced hearing loss in workers and ensure that they remain healthy and productive while performing their job.

Benefits of Implementing a Hearing Conservation Program

Implementing a hearing conservation program has many benefits for both employers and workers. Some of these benefits include:

1. Compliance with regulations: Employers can ensure compliance with these regulations and avoid penalties.
2. Improved worker health: Workers who can hear well are more likely to be productive and experience fewer workplace accidents.
3. Increased productivity: Workers who can hear well are better able to communicate with each other and with supervisors, leading to increased productivity and efficiency in the workplace.
4. Reduced workers' compensation claims: By preventing hearing loss, employers can save money on workers' compensation claims and reduce their insurance premiums.

Key Components of a Successful Hearing Conservation Program

A successful hearing conservation program should have the following key components:

1. Noise monitoring: Employers must monitor noise levels in the workplace to identify areas where noise exposure is high and to evaluate the effectiveness of noise control measures.
2. Hearing protection devices: Workers should be provided with appropriate hearing protection devices, such as earplugs or earmuffs, to reduce their exposure to noise.
3. Audiometric testing: Workers should undergo regular audiometric testing to detect any hearing loss and ensure that they are properly using their hearing protection devices.
4. Worker training and education: Workers should be educated about the risks of noise-induced hearing loss and the importance of protecting their hearing. They should also receive training on the proper use of hearing protection devices.
5. Record-keeping: Employers shall maintain an accurate record of all employee noise exposure measurements and must ensure that all records shall be retained for two years (NIOSH recommends records be kept for the duration of employment, plus another 30 years).
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Workplace Strategies for Preventing Hearing Loss

Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise in the workplace, leading to irreversible damage to the auditory system. Employers have a responsibility to protect their employees from this hazard, and workplace strategies for preventing hearing loss can play a critical role in achieving this goal.

1. Monitor noise with Soundtrace - Soundtrace that measures the noise levels in a given environment and allows users to easily monitor with the cloud-based solution. Employers can identify areas in the workplace where noise levels are high and take proactive measures to reduce the noise levels and ensure employees are not overexposed on a daily basis.
2. Selecting appropriate PPE and ensuring proper fit - Employers should select appropriate PPE, such as earplugs or earmuffs, that can effectively reduce noise levels. It is also important to ensure that the PPE fits properly and is comfortable for the worker to wear. The Soundtrace software helps ensure that employees are provided with adequate hearing protection based on the NRR and the adjusted exposure in the workplace.
3. Developing and implementing a training program - Educating workers on the hazards of noise exposure and the importance of hearing protection is crucial for preventing hearing loss. Employers should develop and implement a training program that includes information on the risks of noise exposure, how to properly use PPE, and the importance of regular audiometric testing.
4. Providing regular audiometric testing and monitoring with Soundtrace - Regular audiometric testing is essential for monitoring the hearing health of workers. Soundtrace offers advanced audiometric testing that can be performed in the workplace without a 3rd party mobile clinic.

Preventing hearing loss in the workplace requires a multi-faceted approach. The Bureau of Labor Statistics emphasizes that like many occupational injuries, work-related hearing loss is preventable when controls are implemented, proper protection is provided and required standards are followed.

Hearing loss is often misunderstood as a condition that only affects the ears. However, the truth is that hearing loss can have a significant impact on our overall health and well-being. When we neglect to take care of our hearing, it can lead to a range of health problems, both physical and psychological.

Employers can protect their workers from the harmful effects of noise exposure and create a safer, healthier work environment by implementing and following a well-designed hearing conservation program can effectively reduce the risk of hearing loss among their workforce, improve overall employee health and well-being, and comply with regulatory requirements.

Ultimately, investing in a hearing conservation program is not only a legal and ethical obligation but also a sound business decision that can result in long-term benefits for both employees and employers. It can promote a more productive workforce, improve job satisfaction and employee retention, and help employers comply with regulations and avoid legal and financial consequences.

If you're concerned about the impact of noise exposure on your hearing and would like to take steps to protect yourself and your colleagues, consider using Soundtrace.

Schedule a demo to speak with an occupational hearing conservationist and learn more about how Soundtrace can help you and your organization implement an effective hearing conservation program and promote a safe and healthy workplace.

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