Throughout the month of May we have been handing out earplugsat our three offices and at numerous events throughout the Puget Sound. While some people jump with excitement to receive the multicolored foam plugs, others have been disinterested and are unsure when they may need such protection.
We here at ESHC take hearing care and protection very seriously! If you tell us “I don’t need ear protection” be prepared for a few questions from our staff and doctors of audiology;
- Do you ever do yard work with lawnmowers or leaf blowers? (85-100dB)
- Do you ever attend concerts or play an instrument? (100-120dB)
- Do you use machinery such as chainsaws or work on projects that use other power-tools? (100-110dB)
- Do you drive a motorcycle or convertible? (85-130dB)
- Do you work around loud noises such as machinery, airplanes or cars? (100-140dB)
If you’ve answered yes to any of the above items, you DO need ear protection. Using foam earplugs you reduce the sound level by at least 20 decibels (dB), and by increasing your protection with custom molded earplugs or earmuffs you can reduce the sound level up to 40dB. When it comes to loud sounds this reduction in dB can be the difference between healthy hearing and damage. Hearing damage has been noted to occur when sounds exceed 85 decibels (dB).
This BHSM we encourage you to take a second look at the potential dangerous noises around you, and think of when you might benefit from using ear protection! Check out our special BHSM site that highlights the importance of hearing protection.