Approximately 30 million workers are exposed to hazardous levels of noise on the job.
Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by damage to the hair cells that are found in our inner ear. Hair cells are small sensory cells that convert the sounds we hear (sound energy) into electrical signals that travel to the brain. Once damaged, our hair cells cannot grow back, causing permanent hearing loss. Hearing protection decreases the intensity, or loudness, of noise and helps preserve your hearing.
Testimonial
Dan: “I wasn’t ignoring you!”
Dan spent many years working in loud industries. He didn´t realize it had affected his hearing until he started working in an office environment.
“My co-workers were getting mad at me.” says Dan. “They thought I was ignoring them.” He talked to his wife about it and she suggested that he might have ADHD because he just wasn´t listening.
He made an appointment at WENT and learned that his hearing was only functioning at 60%. He also learned that hearing and memory are closely related. His hearing devices are hardly noticeable, especially when he wears his glasses. Now Dan can hear people when his back is turned, participate more effectively at work and now people realize he´s a pretty nice guy!
Dan encourages his co-workers and friends to visit WENT and have their hearing checked. It has reduced his stress level, improved his relationships at home and at work, and changed his life.
Decibel Levels: A quick reference for levels of noise.
20 dB – Leaves rustling
30 dB – Whisper
40 dB – Quiet library
50 dB – Moderate rainfall
60 dB – Normal conversations or dishwashers
70 dB – Traffic, vacuums
80 dB – Alarm clocks
OVER 85 dB FOR EXTENDED PERIODS CAN CAUSE PERMANENT HEARING LOSS
DANGEROUS OVER 30 MINUTES
90 dB – Hair dryers, blenders, and lawnmowers, power tools
100 dB – Snowmobiles, MP3 players at full volume
110 dB – Concerts, car racing, and sporting events
DANGEROUS OVER 30 SECONDS
120 dB – Jet planes at take off
AVOID OR USE HEARING PROTECTION
130 dB – Ambulances, jackhammers and fire engine sirens
140 dB – Gun shots, fireworks, and custom car stereos at full volume
Technology | Custom Hearing Protection
To fit you and your lifestyle
Noise can damage your hearing easier than you may think! Hearing protection is needed for loud noises in the workplace, firearms and exposure to heavy equipment but have you considered the damage that is done to your hearing by mowing your lawn, riding a motorcycle or attending concerts? Come see one of our audiologists to determine the appropriate type of hearing protection for your needs.
Various custom fitted hearing protection devices are available to suit any occupation, musician, or noise environment. While some custom earmolds are made to reduce noise, others are for improved listening and fit cell phone or MP3 earbud style headphones.
“Dr. Strand is wonderful. In fact, all the staff are just the best. Personable, and to the point. You will be well cared for at Willamette ENT.”