The risk of noise-induced hearing loss often goes undetected until it is too late.  There are a variety of reasons why this may happen-

• Hearing loss causes no pain
• Workers may feel discomfort and pain from excessive noise, but not from the hearing loss.
• The loss can occur gradually. Therefore, the exposed worker doesn’t notice until significant damage has occurred
• Once damaged, hearing cannot be restored. Damaged hearing can affect job performance, health and productivity.

It is common knowledge that hearing-impaired workers may pose a hazard to others and to themselves. They may misunderstand warnings and instructions as a result of their hearing loss.

The Effects of Hearing Loss on Overall Health

Often, many don’t think about the effects of hearing loss may have on a person.  The non-auditory effects of noise may include:

• Anxiety
• Poor digestion
• Depression
• Stress
• Fatigue
• Poor self-image
• Withdrawal from social activities,
• Higher blood pressure and heart rate (hypertension)

Personal productivity- If the job involves a lot of communication, hearing impaired workers may quit or transfer to another position rather than risk criticism or suspicion of incompetence.

Corporate productivity- Compensation premiums, surcharges and penalties can affect the workplace’s productivity and financial health.

RMG has a hearing conservation program right for you.  We offer noise surveys, abatement programs, mobile hearing labs and employee education programs. Contact our office today at info@ravengroup.ca for more information.