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HEAR & NOW

Whether you work in the construction industry or are a hobbyist, you should take steps to prevent hearing loss related to power-tool use. According to a study involving more than 700 carpenters by an audiologist with the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, the average 55-year-old carpenter who had worked a lifetime on noisy job sites had suffered hearing loss on the order of 60 decibels (dB). A 25-dB loss is the threshold beyond which hearing loss is said to occur. As far as younger workers are concerned, the study found that the average 25-yearold carpenter has a hearing loss of 20 dB, which is about the same as a 50year-old who was not exposed to loud noise. Over-the-ear earphones designed to enhance spoken words and filter out hazardous noises are recommended for workers in noisy environments. Although hearing loss can result from aging and certain medical conditions, the main cause of hearing loss for workers is excessive noise in the workplace. Noise-induced hearing loss is cumulative, which means that exposures to loud levels of noise off the job gunfire, power tools, and lout music also can contribute to a workers overall hearing loss. To schedule a hearing exam, please call Accura Audiology at 716-633-0721. We are located at 6645 Main St., Suite B, Williamsville where Better Hearing is Better Living.

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