Chances are, if you work in a Florida environment where you undergo exposure to high levels of noise on a daily basis, you take steps to protect your ears and your hearing, but what if you work somewhere where noise levels are moderate, as opposed to severe? At Kaylor, Kaylor & Leto, P.A., we recognize that even moderately loud work environments can lead to long-term hearing loss, and we have helped many people who suffered work-related hearing loss pursue solutions that meet their needs.
According to USA Today, about 22 million Americans work in settings where hazardous occupational noise levels are commonplace. While those who work in especially loud industries, such as mining, construction or manufacturing, face the risk of work-related hearing loss, so, too, do those who work in moderately loud environments.
According to one study, those regularly exposed to moderate, as opposed to extreme, noise levels are actually more in danger of suffering employment-related hearing loss. Why? Workers in moderately loud environments are less likely to faithfully wear ear protection and otherwise take measures to protect themselves from high levels of noise than those who work in industries where the risks are well-documented.
If you have concerns about the level of noise in your work environment, know that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration sets regulations that limit the length of time you can undergo exposure to certain decibel levels. Your employer may, too, be able to take other measures to protect you, which might include utilizing quieter machinery or investing in more effective protective equipment. You can find more about work-related injuries on our webpage.