10. Does the length of time I hear a noise have anything to do with the danger to my hearing?
It certainly does! The longer you are exposed to a loud noise, the more damaging it may be. Also, the closer you are to the source of intense noise, the more damaging it is.
Every gunshot produces a noise that could damage the ears of anyone in close hearing range. Large bore guns and artillery are the worst because they are the loudest. But even cap guns and firecrackers can damage your hearing if the explosion is close to your ear. Anyone who uses a firearm without some form of hearing protection risks hearing loss.
Recent studies show an alarming increase in hearing loss in youngsters. Evidence suggests that loud rock music along with increased use of portable radios with earphones may be responsible for this phenomenon.
11.Can noise affect more than my hearing?
A ringing in the ears called Tinnitus, commonly occurs after noise exposure and often becomes permanent.
Some people react to loud noise with anxiety and irritability, an increase in pulse rate and blood pressure, or an increase in stomach acid. Very loud noise can reduce efficiency in performing difficult tasks by diverting attention from the job.
12.What are hearing protectors? How effective are they?
Hearing protection devices decrease the intensity of sound that reaches the eardrum. They come in two forms: earmuffs and earplugs.
Earplugs are small inserts that fit into the outer ear canal. To be effective they must totally block the ear canal with an airtight seal. They are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit individual ear canals and can be custom made.
Earmuffs fit over the entire outer ear to form a seal so the entire circumference of the ear is blocked, and are held in place by an adjustable head band. Earmuffs will not seal around eyeglasses or long hair, and adjustable head band tension must be sufficient to hold earmuffs firmly against the ears.
13.Product Comparison
Earplugs
Earmuffs
Small
Large
Comfortable in all climatic conditions
Ear canals and outer ears become irritated in warm, moist climatic conditions
Compatible with other forms of protection
Not compatible
Less expensive
More expensive
Acrylic material does not absorb bodily secretions e.g. perspiration
Rubber or silicone materials absorb bodily secretions e.g. sweat
More comfortable to wear for longer periods of time
Only comfortable for short periods of time
Custom made earplugs
Disposable earplugs
Ear shape variations taken into account. Accurate fittings result in proper protection
Ear shape variations cause inaccurate fittings thus resulting in improper protection
Will protect the user against damaging sound, while allowing the user to communicate
Communication difficult
Use of telephone possible
Use of telephone not possible without removing the earplug
Occlusion effect minimized
Occlusion effect created
Manufactured to be used long term
Has to be replaced daily
Compatible with other forms of protection – hard hats and eye protection
Not always compatible with other forms of protection
Worker pride – His own personalized set of hearing protectors
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Hearing protection devices decrease the intensity of sound that reaches the eardrum. They come in two forms: earmuffs and earplugs.
Earmuffs fit over the entire outer ear to form a seal so the entire circumference of the ear is blocked, and are held in place by an adjustable head band. Earmuffs will not seal around eyeglasses or long hair, and adjustable head band tension must be sufficient to hold earmuffs firmly against the ears.
