Noise induced hearing loss can occur from exposure to one very loud sound or continuous exposure to more moderate sounds over a period of time. While you may think to grab your earplugs when heading out to a rock show or sporting event, there are some areas you should be mindful of that you may never have considered unsafe. Below are four locations where you should be careful and protect your ears.
Your Work
Occupational hearing loss is one of the most common illnesses related to work, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Unfortunately, about one in every five workers in the U.S. has been exposed to noises loud enough to cause damage.
Workers in the construction and public transit industries are the most at risk. But there are some unlikely professions that can also cause damage. Musicians, entertainers and even fitness instructors put their hearing at risk.
The best way to protect your hearing if you work in a loud environment is by wearing proper hearing protection, which your company is legally required to provide you with.
Your Home City
Large cities like Houston are filled with noise from police sirens, construction sites and city buses. Experts estimate that a typical city can measure anywhere form 60 dB to 110 dB at any given time.
New York City is looking to do something about this. In 2018 they started a five-year study funded by the National Science Foundation to monitor city noise. The Sound of New York City project is looking to identify the source of hazardous noise levels; once gathered, this information can be used to make cities safer.
Your Backyard
It takes a lot to keep your backyard the envy of your neighbors. Lawn mowers, electric saws and leaf blowers are just a few of the tools every homeowner needs to keep their yard looking nice. But these machines can reach decibel levels in the triple digits. Wearing protective hearing gear can prevent damage while still allowing you to work in your yard.
Your Favorite Restaurant
With a busy kitchen, patrons loudly talking to their dinner companions and the wait staff moving quickly through the dining area, it is no wonder restaurants are so loud. Choosing to visit the hot new spot during the off hours between the lunch and dinner rush can ensure you enjoy the food without putting your hearing at risk.
A good rule of thumb is if you feel like you have to shout to be heard, the environment is too loud.
Fortunately, noise induced hearing loss is preventable. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact the hearing experts at Houston Hearing Center today.
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