Noise on the Job

Loud noise on your job is not only annoying and frustrating--it is also a serious danger to your health and safety. How does workplace noise affect me and my health? Your ears will never "just get used to" loud noise.

When you are exposed to a loud noise over a long period of time, you can get permanent hearing loss. Over time, noise can destroy the fragile hair cells in your ear that act as sound receivers. These hair cells do not grow back. Unlike the hearing loss that older people get, neither surgery nor a hearing aid can help correct this type of hearing loss.

High noise levels can also cause. . .temporary hearing loss high blood pressure, ulcers, headaches, loss of appetite, increased irritability, and sleep disruption. Loud noise can also cause other workplace injuries. When you have problems communicating with your co-workers or hearing warning signals on the job, accidents are more likely to happen. How do I know if I am exposed to dangerous levels of noise at work? If you. . .

• Hear ringing or humming in your ears after you leave the workplace

• Have to shout to be heard by a co-worker only a few feet away

• Notice you need to turn the TV louder after work than you do on weekends

• Are told by family or friends that you've started to have trouble hearing . . .You may be exposed to too much noise at work!

Noise is measured in units called decibels (dBAs). The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says that noise levels of 85 dBA or higher are dangerous when workers are exposed to it for 8 hours.

How does OSHA protect workers' hearing? The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says that your employer must protect your hearing at work. Your employer must measure the areas of the plant where noise levels seem high. The Union's Health and Safety Committee can get copies of these tests.

For areas in the plant found to expose workers to noise levels over 85 dBA, employers must:

• Conduct annual hearing tests.
• Give free hearing exams to all workers every year to make sure workers are not losing their hearing. (You have the right to get copies of this exam)
• Give free hearing protection--ear plugs and ear muffs, that is fitted for each worker. Workers must be given a choice of hearing protection and training in its use and care.

• Putting equipment on rubber mats,
• Enclosing equipment in a booth,
• Reducing the speed of moving parts,
• Keeping machines in good working order.

Making changes to tools and equipment are the best ways to reduce noise levels. If such "engineering " changes fail to reduce sound levels then the employer can rely on earplugs and ear muffs to protect workers. Many employers don't look at the source of the noise to reduce loud noises--they require workers to wear ear plugs without looking at the causes of the noise and possible ways to control it.