AUDITORY ERGONOMICS FOR A
Better Workplace
Prolonged noise exposure can come with many side effects. We all work in environments with varying noise levels. Some workplaces are louder than others, but all have at least some level of ambient noise, whether we like it or not. So, it’s important to limit the ways that noise affects our hearing health. Rethinking our work environment using certain principles of auditory ergonomics is a great way to protect our hearing!
Effects of a Noisy Workplace Noise-related deafness is a common issue. There is evidence that exposure to high noise levels can lead to hearing loss. It only takes a few hours in a noisy workplace to realize how important it is to have enough hearing protection. Workplace noise affects more than just hearing, too; it can also affect the hormone and autonomic nervous systems, because it increases blood pressure, heart rate and blood viscosity. This raises the risk of vascular and cardiac problems1,2.
Are Hearing Protectors Enough? In noisy environments, it’s best to try and reduce noise at the source. Of course, wearing hearing protectors is also beneficial. However, they must be used properly, since studies show that the level of protection, written in decibels by the manufacturer on the packaging, is actually lower. Several factors explain the decrease in effective protection. The protector may be improperly installed or damaged by prolonged use. Some workers also have a tendency to remove it a few times a day3. Therefore, it is ideal to opt for custom noise protectors that are designed to provide comfort and protection. For this reason, noise reduction at the source is also essential. Here are a few principles of auditory ergonomics to consider: + Move workers away from the source of the noise + Place the source of the noise in a soundproof enclosure or allow workers to work in a soundproofed area + Place a screen between the worker and the machine + Dampen equipment vibration + Install a silencer on noisy air vents + Plug leaks in air ducts + Reduce reverberation (echo) + Install a noise-cancelling system4
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