How can hearing loss be prevented?
• Pay attention to the noises around you and turn down the volume whenever possible. • Use headphones that contain acoustical limiting devices. Headsets that use acoustical limiting devices are designed to provide sufficient protection to keep the noise level below the level that causes ear damage. • Avoid the continuous use of portable stereos in noisy conditions. (Listeners tend to turn up their personal stereos too high, to overcome the noisy environment and cause hearing damage). • Avoid or limit time spent in noisy sports events, rock concerts, and night clubs. • Wear adequate hearing protection, such as foam ear plugs or ear muffs, when you must be in a noisy environment or when using loud equipment. • For additional information, see: Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Safety and Health Topic Page. • Choose the Hearing Protection That’s Right for You – by Carol Merry Stephenson, Ph.D. • Hearing Protector Device Compend
