by Albert Aunchman

Created on: March 18, 2008   Last Updated: April 24, 2008

Every year, an estimated 10 million Americans will succumb to irreversible hearing loss from noise. It is estimated that 30 million people will be exposed to dangerous levels during their everyday activities. Hearing loss can be greatly reduced by using adequate hearing protection.

Our ears are very sensitive organs. They can detect the sound of a fingertip running across our chin, to the sound of a jet engine that is 1 trillion times louder. Sound is measured in Decibels (dB). The decibel scale for sounds, heard close by, ranges from 0 dB (near total silence) to 140 dB ( a gunshot). Any noise above 85 dB is considered loud enough to cause hearing loss. Normal conversation is about 15dB.

There are many things that we can do to protect ourselves from permanent hearing loss. One of the easiest ways is to limit our exposure to harmful noises. Turning down the TV or radio, and keeping devices that require headsets at a safe level will go a long way in helping protect your hearing. Another way we can help protect ourselves is by checking the decibel levels on appliances and toys that we purchase.

Whenever using yard equipment (power mowers, chain saws, etc.) always wear ear protection. Earplugs, made of foam or rubber, and muffs can reduce noise to safe levels.
Hearing protection should be worn when using power tools in the workshop or garage.

Electronic Hearing Protection is a new technology that caters to gun enthusiasts. Shooting hearing protection devices work in one of two ways. The first method, "peak clipping", amplifies the entire sound coming through and automatically mutes itself when a dangerous level is detected. Once the unsafe sound is absorbed, the headset reverts back to amplifying the safe sounds. The other type lets safe levels of noise through and compresses dangerous sounds down to a level that is safe for the human ear. Both these types of electronic hearing protection can be used by anyone who is subject to loud noises, such as entertainers or people working in places like airports. The advantage over earplugs or muffs is that these devices allow safe sounds to be heard at a normal level.

The ultimate electronic hearing protection device is worn inside the ear. It uses compression technology. The "hearing aide" sized device is comfortable and can be worn for extended periods without becoming dislodged, you simply set it and forget it. This micro-technology is costly, ranging from $800.00 up to $1800.00 for the top of the line CD quality digital model.

All the hearing protection devices mentioned, from the simple foam earplug to the electronic devices will provide protection from hearing loss, but they must be worn in order to be effective.

Another way we can protect ourselves from hearing loss is by seeing an ENT (ear, nose and throat) physician or an audiologist on a regular basis for checkups or hearing tests.
Our hearing deteriorates normally as we age, but we can help extend our normal hearing by using hearing protection whenever the situation warrants.

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