Does your workplace cause hearing problems?
About 22 million workers a year risk damage to their hearing because of a noisy work environment, estimates the National Institute for Safety and Health (NIOSH).
That exposure can result in several hearing-related problems, including tinnitus, which is usually characterized by constant or intermittent ringing in the ears.
In fact, about one out of every 13 workers has tinnitus.
To prevent hearing problems, employers should limit workers’ exposure to loud noises and encourage workers to use hearing protection, such as earplugs. And those who use chainsaws and other loud equipment should always wear over-the-ear hearing protection.
NIOSH also points out that workers with hearing loss are more likely to get injured on the job. This is because the condition can have negative impacts on their sleeping and concentration.
Source: Safety+Health
Physicians Quality Care OCCMed can assess your work environment and suggest ways to limit employee exposure to damaging noise. Contact OCCMed Director Jennifer Hill at 731-984-8400 or jennifer@physiciansqualitycare.com.
