Hearing Protection and Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
MOST-COMMON SOURCES OF NOISE
Military service, construction/factory jobs, and flight crew work are all readily accepted as noisy occupations and are regulated by OSHA requiring hearing protection. Below are some hobbies that can contribute to noise-induced hearing loss.
With proper prevention – unlike conductive and sensorineural hearing losses – you can avoid a noise-induced hearing loss.
HEARING PROTECTION: PROS & CONS
Foam Earplugs
Pros: readily accessible, inexpensive
Cons: Protection depends upon correct insertion, distorts music
Custom Ear Plugs
Pros: Consistent level of protection, wide variety of options available for different needs
Cons: requires visit with audiologist, higher cost
Ear Muffs
Pros: readily accessible, inexpensive
Cons: bulky, distorts music