NIOSH Safety and Health Topic:

Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention

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What is Work-Related Hearing Loss?

Work-related hearing loss continues to be a critical workplace safety and health issue. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the occupational safety and health community named hearing loss one of the 21 priority areas for research in the next century. Noise-induced hearing loss is 100 percent preventable but once acquired, hearing loss is permanent and irreversible. Therefore, prevention measures must be taken by employers and workers to ensure the protection of workers' hearing.
>>More facts on the problem of worker hearing loss, its costs to society, and prevention

>> View Noise Meter - Flash Version (1.4 MB)

Note: You must have the Flash plug-in installed on your machine to view the Noise Meter. If you do not have this plug-in, download the Flash plug-in . Otherwise, view the standard version

How do I choose the right hearing protection? Choosing the right hearing protector for you depends upon many factors. >>Learn more... What are Noise Reduction Ratings (NRR)? You've seen these ratings on hearing protectors, but what do they actually mean? >> Learn more about NRR External Link: http://www.freehearingtest.com/nrr.shtml		Common Hearing Loss Prevention Terms There are many terms common to hearing loss prevention. The provided definitions were written in as non-technical fashion as possible. >>Learn more...

Noise and Hearing Loss Fact Sheets Noise Induced Hearing Loss - Attitudes and Behaviors of U.S. Adults Safeworker: A Hearing Loss Prevention Guide "Sound Advice: Protect Your Ears In Noisy Environments"		Roll, Pull and Hold - How to wear soft foam earplugs For a good fit, use the roll, pull and hold method. Developed by NIOSH Mining Safety and Health Research, this three step method for inserting soft foam earplugs into your ears can help you get the best protection against excessive noise exposure. The method is also demonstrated through RealMedia Video. >> View the Roll, Pull and Hold method

Interactive Tools on Hearing Loss Have you ever tested your hearing? >> Try this free online hearing test External Link: www.freehearingtest.com Save Your Hearing - An Interactive Multimedia Presentation Download and install this interactive tool that explains the risks of hearing loss in the workplace, how the ear works, and proper use of hearing protection. (Note: This application is approximately 256 MB) >> Download tool