Understanding Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Occupational Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is a type of hearing disorder that may occur due to long-term exposure to loud noises in the workplace. Unlike sudden hearing loss, NIHL typically develops gradually, sometimes going unnoticed until the symptoms become more significant.

Early signs of NIHL can be subtle, such as difficulty understanding speech or a ringing in the ears. However, if the condition progresses, it may result in more severe hearing loss, which may affect communication at work, social interactions, and overall quality of life.

This slow onset often makes NIHL hard to detect initially, leading many individuals to continue working in noisy environments longer than they should. That makes recognising the early signs and knowing how to deal with noise-induced hearing loss necessary, as this can help prevent further damage to your hearing.

Recognising the Signs of NIHL

The initial signs of occupational noise-induced hearing loss can be quite subtle. Common NIHL symptoms might include:

• Difficulty hearing in noisy environments: People who suffer from hearing loss may find it hard to follow conversations in places with significant background noise, such as in busy work environments.
• Frequently asking others to repeat themselves: Consistently asking others to repeat what they’ve said might also indicate trouble understanding speech due to hearing loss, especially in loud places or when someone speaks softly.
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus): One of the most common early indicators of hearing damage caused by loud noise exposure is ringing in the ear, which may vary in intensity and duration.
• Muffled hearing: This muffled sensation often results from damage or obstruction within the ear, affecting the ability to perceive high-frequency sounds or distinguish speech clearly.
• Others notice your hearing difficulties: Sometimes, friends, family, or colleagues may notice others’ hearing difficulties based on a change of habits, such as an increased volume of TV sound.

If any of these symptoms occur, consider consulting a healthcare professional immediately to help preserve your hearing and quality of life.

What is the Most Common Workplace That Could Potentially Increase the Risk of Hearing Loss?

Globally, occupational noise is responsible for 16% of disabling hearing loss in adults. Meanwhile, in Singapore, 1,093 workers were diagnosed with noise-induced hearing loss over the past few years, making up 35% of all confirmed occupational disease cases.

The metalworking industry has been named the leading contributor to excessive workplace noise in Singapore, with activities such as grinding, punching, shearing, and stamping producing noise levels of ≥85 dB(A) over an 8-hour workday. Other industries with high noise exposure levels include construction, manufacturing, and marine sectors.

To help address these concerns, the Ministry of Manpower in Singapore encourages workplaces to adopt comprehensive Hearing Conservation Programmes (HCPs), which include regular noise assessments, engineering controls, and administrative measures. Moreover, the use of tools like the NIOSH Sound Level Meter app may also help employees monitor their noise exposure levels to reduce the risks of hearing loss associated with their work.

How Does it Impact Workers?

The impact of hearing loss at work goes beyond auditory difficulties. It may also influence various aspects of a worker’s life and well-being. Some of the significant impacts due to hearing loss include:

• Quality of life: Everyday activities such as listening to music, watching television, or enjoying social gatherings become challenging, which may lead to frustration and reduced enjoyment.
• Workplace performance: Communication barriers caused by hearing difficulties can potentially affect collaboration, increase the likelihood of errors, and reduce productivity.
• Relationships: Miscommunication or the inability to participate in conversations can strain relationships with colleagues, friends, and family members, which may exacerbate feelings of loneliness or stress.
• Mental health: Hearing loss has also been associated with mental health, as the constant effort required to interpret sounds or conversations may contribute to mental fatigue.

The impact of hearing loss on workers can be substantial. Therefore, it is important that workplaces start promoting best practices for hearing conservation and provide support for those affected by this condition.

Protecting Your Hearing at Work

In addition to occupational noise-induced hearing loss, research also indicates that extensive exposure to loud noise can potentially increase the chances of experiencing depression, anxiety, heart issues, and cognitive decline which can lead to dementia. As a result, it’s important to practice measures to prevent hearing loss, especially in work environments with high noise levels.

In Singapore, the WSH Act and Noise Regulations emphasise the importance of managing noise levels and safeguarding hearing for both employers and employees in workplaces.

Employers’ Responsibilities

To safeguard employees from the effects of excessive noise exposure, the following steps should be taken:

• Conduct noise assessments at least once every three years or whenever there’s a change in machinery or processes that could increase noise levels.
• Consult experts on effective noise control strategies, such as appointing a noise control officer.
• Implement hearing conservation programmes that include training for employees on the effects of loud noise exposure and how to properly use and maintain hearing protectors.
• Ensure employees undergo pre-employment and regular audiometry tests in Singapore.
• Provide suitable hearing protection that fits perfectly, is able to reduce noise exposure below 85 dB(A), and is compatible with job requirements.

The regulation also stipulates that employers must ensure that noise exposures do not exceed a sound pressure level of 140 dB(C).

Employees’ Responsibilities

Employees also play an essential role in protecting their hearing. Some of the responsibilities of employees include:

• Use hearing protection correctly and consistently.
• Report any concerns about noise exposure levels or hearing difficulties.
• Report any equipment malfunctions and pinpoint sources of loud noise exposure.
• Attend hearing health check-ups as advised.

This collaborative effort between employers and employees helps ensure that everyone understands the essential safety measures and takes an active role in fostering a safe work environment.

What to Do if You Suspect NIHL

If you suspect that you may have Noise-Induced Hearing Loss, you may need to act promptly. Any noticeable signs of hearing loss, such as difficulty understanding conversations or persistent ringing in your ears (tinnitus), should not be ignored. It’s also advised to schedule an appointment with an audiologist or a hearing care professional for further examination. They can perform audiological tests to help assess your hearing and identify any potential issues with your ear.

Early detection can help manage symptoms and prevent further deterioration of your hearing. A professional can recommend suitable treatment options or hearing aids in Singapore if necessary, as well as protective measures to minimise further damage. Additionally, they may give you some guidance to help you deal with exposure to harmful noise levels that may cause hearing loss at work.