What is Tinnitus
We all know that loud noise causes hearing loss, this is called Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). The first sign of NIHL is often Tinnitus. Tinnitus is often caused by a prolonged exposure to loud noise, or even an isolated blast of loud noise. Tinnitus sufferers will describe the experience of a ringing, buzzing, hissing or other sounds in the ears or head, to varying degrees. Tinnitus can have a negative impact on sufferer’s mental health, relationships and working life. There is no cure.
How does it affect my work performance?
The main effects of Tinnitus are poor concentration, difficulty in hearing, listening fatigue, and exclusion from conversation. A survey conducted by RNID found that 42% of tinnitus sufferers said the condition had an adverse effect on their work.
Who are getting it?
Those who spend time in environments where sound levels regularly exceed 80-85dBa are at greater risk. Employees in industries such as factory and construction workers, ground keepers, agricultural workers, nursery workers, airside ground staff, dentists, musicians, bar staff and motorcycle couriers, to name just a few.
What is the Law?
Employers have a duty of care, under a range of relevant legislation including the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, to protect staff from loud or prolonged noise. Employers must assess and identify measures to eliminate or reduce risks from noise exposure to protect the hearing of employees.
What if I Ignore a Noise Problem?
Not only is it in the best interest for your employees’ health to assess and address noise exposure, it’s also imperative to avoid costly claims. Compensation for severe tinnitus and noise induced hearing loss can vary from £27,890 to £42,730; for each employee.
How can RV Acoustics help?
At RV Acoustics, we are an all-in-one package. We can carry out the noise risk assessment, identify noise controls, specify adequate hearing protection, provide an easy-to-follow noise action plan, give staff noise awareness training, management training and onsite health surveillance (hearing tests), all of which are fully compliant with the legislation.
Our workplace noise surveys begin at £400.
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