Identifying loud noise 7KHUHLVQRGHÀQLWLYHPHWKRGWRLGHQWLI\ZKHWKHUDQRLVHLVORXGHQRXJK to be damaging without taking a proper measurement, but below are a few ‘rules of thumb’ to help you identify what is too loud: 1. If you have to shout to be heard by somebody around a metre away, the background noise is loud enough to be potentially damaging. If you can only hear or be heard above the noise when shouting right next to the ear, the intensity is very loud indeed and is even more likely to be damaging your hearing. 2. ,I\RXÀQG\RXUKHDULQJLVGXOOHGDIWHUH[SRVLQJ\RXUVHOIWRQRLVH then your hearing has been damaged. This may be temporary, but if you expose yourself repeatedly to these situations, the damage may become permanent. You should speak to your GP if concerned (and your human resources if the noise is work related) as you may need a hearing test. If this noise exposure will be repeated, ear protection should be used. 3. ,I\RXÀQGDULQJLQJRUEX]]LQJLQ\RXUHDUV tinnitus ) after exposing yourself to noise, then the noise is likely to have been damagingly loud. Avoiding further exposure is strongly advised, as is speaking to your GP if you are concerned. 4. Use common sense! If a sound is painfully or uncomfortably loud, VWRSH[SRVXUHLPPHGLDWHO\,I\RXÀQG\RXDUHJHWWLQJDKHDGDFKH feel uncomfortable, or are at all concerned about the intensity of the noise, remove yourself from the situation and the noise exposure. Consequences Exposure to loud noise can have consequences for your ears, the most obvious of which is hearing loss. If noise is the suspected cause,
Whilst the BTA makes every attempt to ensure the accuracy and reliability of this information, it is not a substitute for medical advice. You should always see your GP/medical professional.
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator