What Jobs Require Hearing Protection

In certain occupations, noise can be an everyday reality. Hearing protection in the workplace should not only provide comfort, but it should also preserve hearing health as well. But how do you know if you job require hearing protection? If you work in a noisy environment, you should consider wearing hearing protection to help prevent noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

Construction Workers

When people think of construction, images of hard hats and high-vis vests often come to mind. But construction sites also present an immense source of noise pollution, from jackhammers to heavy machinery. Prolonged exposure to noise can lead to hearing loss, so construction workers must wear sufficient hearing protection. Earplugs and earmuffs are designed to filter out harmful noise in order to ensure their health on the job site.

Factory and Manufacturing Employees

Working in factories and manufacturing often means being around loud machinery and equipment that can produce noise levels well over 85 decibels. In these environments, wearing hearing protection is crucial to prevent noise-induced hearing loss. Without proper protection like earplugs or earmuffs, the constant exposure to loud sounds can damage the sensitive structures in your inner ear. Over time, this damage can lead to hearing loss, making it harder to hear conversations, alarms or even enjoy music. To protect your hearing, it’s important to wear the right hearing protection whenever you’re in a noisy work environment.

Musicians and DJs

Musicians and DJs are at greater risk for hearing loss due to long exposure to loud music. Audiologists typically recommend custom-molded earplugs designed specifically for musicians that let them hear music accurately while attenuating harmful noise levels. These tools become invaluable in protection their hearing. If you are a musician, schedule an appointment with an audiologist and discuss custom-molded earplugs.

Pilots and Air Traffic Controllers

Pilots and air traffic controllers in aviation are frequently exposed to high levels of noise during their workday. The powerful engines in an aircraft can make the cockpit extremely loud. While air traffic controllers may seem to work in quieter environments, the constant use of headsets and background noise in control towers can still impact their hearing over time. Noise-canceling headsets are important for both pilots and air traffic controllers, as they help protect hearing and improve communication. Wearing high-quality hearing protection is crucial for aviation professionals to maintain their hearing health throughout their careers.

Firefighters and Paramedics

Every day in a firefighter or paramedic’s life may involve sirens blaring, emergency radios chirping and heavy equipment noise. These sounds form part of their daily experience. Unfortunately, such environments often pose risks to their hearing. Therefore, audiologists recommend specially designed earplugs which reduce harmful noise while still allowing important sounds like speech or alarms to be clearly heard.

Hearing protection should always be at the forefront of one’s mind in high-noise environments, whether you are a construction working, attending concerts or piloting aircrafts. If you want to learn more about the different types of hearing protection or what jobs require protection, schedule an appointment with an audiologist. They will answer any questions you have.