One in eight people in the United States aged 12 and older has hearing loss in both ears, based on standard hearing exams. Yet, most individuals wait an average of seven years before seeking help. That delay can lead to isolation, misunderstandings, and cognitive decline.
This May, MedPhysicals Plus is joining health professionals across the country to promote National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, a national campaign dedicated to educating the public on the importance of hearing and speech health. But this year, we want to do more than raise awareness. We want to challenge you to take action for your own hearing health.
Why Hearing Health Matters on the Job
Clear hearing is critical in the workplace. Whether you are communicating with coworkers, following verbal instructions, or responding to alarms and alerts, your ability to hear accurately affects your performance and safety. Even mild or gradual hearing loss can interfere with communication, increase misunderstandings, and lead to mistakes that could have been prevented.
In high-risk industries like construction, aviation, transportation, and manufacturing, poor hearing is more than an inconvenience. It can pose serious safety hazards. But even in quieter settings, such as classrooms or offices, long-term exposure to background noise and the use of headphones can contribute to hearing damage over time.
Hearing Conservation is a Legal Requirement in Many Workplaces
Federal regulations, including those from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT), mandate hearing conservation programs in work environments where noise exposure reaches specific thresholds. According to OSHA, employers must implement a hearing conservation program if workers are exposed to noise levels of 85 decibels or more over an 8-hour time-weighted average.
These programs must include baseline and annual audiometric testing, employee training, and appropriate hearing protection. Industries most affected by these regulations include construction, manufacturing, aviation, trucking, law enforcement, and emergency services.
Failing to comply with these guidelines not only puts workers at risk but also exposes employers to legal and financial liabilities. In some cases, non-compliance can result in fines, increased workers’ compensation claims, and loss of certifications or contracts.
Make Audiology Testing Part of Your Workplace Safety Plan
MedPhysicals Plus offers audiology services specifically designed to support Alaskans in the workforce. We provide hearing evaluations for individuals, as well as occupational hearing screenings for employers who want to stay compliant with OSHA and DOT standards. Our services include diagnostic testing, tinnitus management, hearing aid fittings, and custom hearing protection.
Contact MedPhysicals Plus today to schedule your appointment or to learn more about hearing health services for your team. Hearing well is not just about listening. It is about being fully present, staying safe, and performing at your best every day.