Noise and Hearing Impairment - Essay Example

It is quite common to encounter noise at the workplace, production units, and in the fields. Noise at any level not only disrupts communication process but also impairs our hearing. It is estimated that 38 million people in the US are affected with impaired hearing. Noise causes hearing loss. Those who work in manufacturing places are most prone to this occupational hazard and at least one in four workers might develop hearing loss due to high-decibel sounds known as noise in common parlance.

Music is a great entertainer and everyone including young and old enjoys it. People play music at high volume and dance whether one is sitting at concerts or in a party or at homes. Most the people are exposed to the high pitch of the music without any concern that it may cause a detrimental effectonto their hearing ability.

Manufacturing unit is one of the worst places where usually one exposes to noise for quite a long period – mostly all eight hours of the shift. That noise is torturous and debilitating for the health of workers. Noise is measured in decibels and often it is found at a very high level exceeding 85 dBA– the threshold limit prescribed by OSHA. Manufacturing units particularly process and chemical industries where steam is used in the process has its own typical noise emanating without any break. Tools and tackles continue to throw varied and shrill noise that not only affects hearing but mental health too.

Drivers who drive heavy trucks and huge trolleys to transport goods from one place to another are continuously exposed to the engine noise. That noise is often found to be at high levels and damages the hearing in the long run.

At work places, it is recommended to use ear muffs or earplugs. Ear muffs cover entire outer ear blocking entire ear canal.  Earplugs fit into the outer ear canal. They are easily available in variety of shapes and sizes at local pharmacies to fit into the ears of each individual.