Hearing loss is the only 100% preventable illness and it is irreversible. It often goes undetected until significant, irreparable damage has occurred as Hearing Loss usually occurs slowly and gradually over time.
You can do a quick and easy assessment of your exposure to noise. When driving home, set the car radio at a pleasant volume. The following morning when you start your car, notice if the radio seems very loud to you. If so, you may be experiencing exposure to noise and should look at activities in your life that may contribute to excessive noise exposures and have your hearing evaluated.
When noise levels exceed 85 decibels for an 8 hour day, Hearing Protection is required. Additionally, all employees (Full-Time, Part-Time, Temporary) exposed to this level of noise are required to have a hearing test within the first 6 months of employment and annually thereafter.