Keeping your ears safe and protected from possible damage is extremely important. Occasional hearing loss is one of the most common work-related illnesses in the United States. To help promote safety and future hearing loss, the American Academy of Audiology is encouraging you to promote awareness of noise for the month of October.
An estimated $242 million is spent annually on workers’ compensation for hearing loss disability. A report based on a survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that as many as 16% of teens (ages 12 to 19) have reported some hearing loss that could have been caused by loud noise, meaning it’s never too early to start precaution. So what can you do to prevent hearing loss?
- Lower the volume on your electronic devices
- Have earplugs or earmuffs on hand for when they’re needed
- Know what noises can cause ear damage
- If you can’t reduce loud noises, move away from it
- Have your hearing tested
- Protect the ears of children who are too young to protect their own
