Hearing Protection, Sound management: Active

Loud noise has been a constant hazard for many workers, especially in construction, heavy industries and music industry. Even a short-term exposure to loud noise without any ear protection can cause a temporary stuffiness or ringing (tinnitus) in your ears. Generally, these problems are short-term and go away within a period of few minutes to 24 hours, depending on the noise. However, recurring exposure to loud noise without hearing protection, such as working in construction sites, factories or setting up rock concerts, can lead to permanent hearing loss or tinnitus. In such cases when hazardously loud noise cannot be avoided, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends using hearing protection devices, such as earplugs and earmuffs, to protect the workers’ hearing. The exact effectiveness of various types of hearing protection depends on the fit and quality of the product as well as proper use by the workers.