This National Safety Month, it is important to raise awareness about occupational safety, which also includes hearing health. There are approximately 22 million U.S. workers who are exposed to hazardous noise levels at work each year. Occupational hearing loss is one of the most common work-related illnesses and can cause permanent hearing loss, but it can be prevented. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Prevention is the key to ensuring a safe and healthy work environment for employers and workers and prioritizing hearing safety. Here are key guidelines to protect hearing safety in the workplace:

Employers should regularly assess noise exposure levels in the workplace to minimize the risk of hearing damage among workers.
Educate workers and provide them with hearing protection devices with proper training on their correct usage.
Encourage open communication among workers to report any concerns or symptoms related to hearing loss, hearing safety, and potential risks.
Conduct hearing check-ups for employees by scheduling them for regular audiology tests to monitor their hearing health. These tests can take proactive steps if significant hearing loss is observed and take necessary remedial action before any further damage can be done to their employees.

At MedPhysicals Plus, we offer audiology tests here in the state of Alaska for employers looking to protect their employees from hearing loss. Our audiology testing services can help businesses comply with OSHA regulations regarding noise exposure and hearing protection, identify employees who may be at risk of hearing loss, and prevent further damage.

Not only do our tests protect employers from liability, it’s also a great way to show that you care! Contact us today or visit our employer services section at https://medphysicalsplus.com/audiology/ to learn more.

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/noise/default.html

https://www.osha.gov/noise

https://greathearingbenefits.com/workplace-safety-understanding-occupational-hearing-loss/

https://iosh.com/news/top-tips-to-protect-peoples-hearing-at-work/