According to a recent report by Reuters, loud noises on the job could increase a worker’s chance of injury. First of all, loud noises cause workers to miss danger warnings because they cannot hear alarms of friends that may be warning them. Secondly, the loud noises may result in hearing loss that could leave them with permanent damage to the inner ear. Researchers discovered that workers regularly exposed to noise levels of 100 decibels have more than double the risk of being hospitalized for a workplace accident. Workers that already experience hearing loss are also more likely to be seriously hurt.
100 decibels is similar to the level of noise produced by a lawn mower. In the USA, up to 30 million workers are exposed to noise at these levels. Some companies attempt to reduce the noise levels in the workplace, but it still remains a significant problem. Work-related injuries remain an important issue that generates significant costs for many business, workers, and compensation organizations.
According to the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, companies need to undergo prevention programs for workplaces that have hazardous noise levels. This includes making noise assessments and implementing noise control tactics. Individuals may also be required to monitor workers’ hearing and use protectors to help employees avoid cochlear damage
Exposure to high noise levels is also known to increase fatigue and decrease the ability to concentrate. It also impairs the quality of communication between workers. Noise and noise-induced hearing loss can be involved in many accidents throughout the U.S. Research shows that out of 46,500 workers, 1,670 of them were hospitalized for work-related injuries within five years of being given hearing tests. If you want more information, don’t hesitate to contact the firm today!