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14February2017

Safer Industrial Environment


Between 2002 and 2007 there were 16,500 successful
workers compensation claims for permanent hearing loss due
to noise in industrial environments. Practical and effective
noise conservation programs and products are essential in
Australian workplaces.

Does Love Last?


Over 3.5 million Australians are living with some form of
hearing loss, with the majority in denial that they even have a
problem. Cochlear has created a short film that is actually a
hearing test in disguise.

Live long and prosper!


Gestures make communication easier for those with hearing
loss. Lets all get animated in our conversations to encourage
those in our life to use them as well. People pick that kind of
thing up unconsciously, plus its fun!

World Hearing Day


On 3 March, make a sound investment

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land, community, sea, and waters where we live and work. We pay our respects to
elderspast,presentandfutureandvaluethecontributionsIndigenousAustraliansmakeinoursociety.Weacknowledgethechallengefor
IndigenousleadersandfamiliestoovercometheunacceptablyhighlevelsofearhealthissuesamongfirstAustralians.
Aussie smart earbuds promise relief for children
struggling in the classroom

By Adam Turner, The Age


Australian smart earbuds maker Nuheara has announced a university-backed trial to study the
effectiveness of its noise-filtering IQbuds in assisting children on the Autism spectrum or with
auditory processing difficulties.

The noise-cancelling wireless earbuds are designed to stream music from a mobile device via
Bluetooth, but their built-in signal processing technology can also filter out ambient noise to help
wearers who struggle to distinguish voices in noisy environments.

Perth school boy Kai finds it easier to concentrate on the teacher's voice with Nuheara's IQbuds helping to
compensate for his Auditory Processing Disorder. Photo: Supplied

It's a condition colloquially known as "pub deafness" but Nuheara has preparing to embark on a
university-backed pilot which may lead to research trials. The move is based on strong anecdotal
evidence that Nuheara's noise-filtering technology offers relief to children who struggle at school
due to difficulty listening and/or concentrating.

It's early days for Nuheara's buds as an assistive tool, and while the company has announced
details of the trial it can't yet name the Australian university involved until its ethics committee
gives the final sign-off, likely to happen later this month.
Perth primary school student Kai has been trialling Nuheara's IQbuds for several months to assist
with concentration problems which have always seen him struggle in class and when socialising
with other children. While eight year-old Kai has excellent hearing, last year he was diagnosed
with an Auditory Processing Disorder which means that the teacher's voice gets lost in the noise of
the classroom, says his mother Mel.

"We had numerous hearing tests which all came back clear, but Kai's teachers would tell us that
he was a bright kid yet he didn't pay attention in class unless you dealt with him one on one," she
says. "Now we know the fact is that, in a noisy environment, he has no idea that you're talking to
him or it just sounds like you're mumbling."

An early childhood teacher, Mel came across Auditory Processing Disorders as part of her
professional development program and made the connection. Once the diagnosis was confirmed,
she was put in touch with Nuheara which offered IQbuds to trial.

The IQbuds offered immediate benefits to Kai, both in the classroom and out in public where he
no longer covers his ears in noisy environments such as shopping centres. At school there has
been a marked improvement in his comprehension and spelling results now that he can better
hear the words, plus his improved hearing has helped with his anxiety, confidence and
concentration issues.

"After his first day at school with the earbuds I asked Kai how it went and he said it was great,
and it was also bad," Mel says.

"He said it was great because he could finally hear the teacher, but bad because now that he
could hear the teacher he had to do what she said."

http://www.theage.com.au/technology/innovation/aussie-smart-earbuds-promise-relief-for-children-struggling-in-the-
classroom-20170207-
gu7s1e.html?utm_content=buffer184a9&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer

Accessibility Conference on Loops, Hearing Technology


Berlin, Germany from October 6 to 8, 2017.

The conference theme is Future Loops - a focus on the latest loop technology and the many
forthcoming alternatives providing access in public places.

The Call for papers for the IFHOH International Accessibility Conference on Hearing loops and
Hearing Technology from 6-8 of October 2017 in Berlin, is now available. Please go to
www.ifhoh.org or to www.facebook.com/groups/IFHOH
Safer Industrial Environment
Noise attenuation headsets and two-way radio communicators are an essential part of safety in
noisy workplaces. An effective communications headset solution with group communicator
capability ensures clear transfer of information between employees, delivers situational
awareness, and maximises personal safety and process efficiency.

Headsets that are comfortable to wear and easy to use also provide another benefit they are the
key to minimising the risk of noise-induced hearing loss and other health conditions such as
tinnitus.

Practical and effective noise conservation programs and products are essential in Australian
workplaces. Between 2002 and 2007 there were 16,500 successful workers compensation claims
for permanent hearing loss due to noise in industrial environments.

Key components of an effective hearing conservation and industrial communications solution


include:

Verbal communications
A communication headset and two-way radio combination must provide clear and interference-
free transfer of voice communication to be considered as an effective tool.

On mine sites where workers are routinely exposed to noisy environments, and need to have the
ability to hear alarms, it is imperative they have appropriate equipment at their disposal. This
helps them complete assignments and communicate clearly with each other and maintain
situational awareness of sources of audible signals, such as vehicle beepers and reversing
indicators.
Some may see a mobile phone as the answer to these communication issues. However, mobile
handsets are not always practical since they can lead to dangerous distractions, and in many
mines, their use is either restricted or banned.

Improved productivity
Productivity is a key performance indicator of any modern industrial operation. Companies
continuously seek to manage and control costs. They also want to improve workplace safety
standards to demonstrate commitment to the wellbeing of employees, which maintains and
increases morale and helps with increased productivity and reduced downtime.

A report from Swedens Lund University found that two-way radio headsets can save 85 minutes
of critical downtime. The downtime in the study is defined as single measurements for one
minute or more where no direct work is performed, such as walking between places at the site,
shorter breaks, reading drawings, looking for material or equipment, and talking to co-workers to
solve problems.

This study also found the critical downtime saved from using the headsets equated a total of 37
hours on a normal 26-week project.

An effective noise attenuating, communications solution eliminates the need to leave noisy areas
in order to have a conversation or worse, remove the hearing protector, even if only for a brief
moment.

Prevention of noise-induced hearing loss


Effective radios and headsets should prevent noise-induced hearing loss. Industrial activities,
including use of pneumatic tools, machinery and heavy equipment make very loud noises and
cause a variety of hearing issues with workers.

In some cases, a poorly manufactured headset can be the cause of hearing problems due to
issues such as acoustic shock.

According to Safe Work Australia, acoustic shock is defined as a sudden, unexpected loud noises
occurring during telephone headset use, including crackles, hisses, whistles, shrieks or high-
pitched noises.

Background noise can also add to the problem because operators may raise the volume in their
headsets to improve hearing, which in turn increases the volume of any peripheral noise coming
though the headset.

From Australian Mining, https://www.australianmining.com.au/news/crystal-clear-


communications-for-a-safer-industrial-environment/
Gestures aid conversation
I teach a speechreading class at different senior centers through my work with the state. Every
time I teach the class I learn a thing or two. It might be lip shapes of certain letters clicking in my
brain at long last. It might be something I need to work on such as saying zero instead of oh
when working with numbers. In life outside the classroom it was rephrasing which I brought back
to my students. This last fall I learned how much gestures aid communication.

Its a lesson in our book which I helped edit a year or so ago. The lesson is in there but I hadnt
given it credit until I watched my seniors struggle last fall learning to lipread. The more we relax,
the easier lipreading gets but my seniors werent
relaxing. They stared intently, not able to pick up
the words in lip speak (no voice). With the younger
crowd I taught everyone the ASL alphabet and we
used finger spelling for hints but my seniors werent
picking up that up either. I sensed frustration so I
encouraged them to use gestures if they saw the
puzzled looks. (Facial expressions are another
lesson in our book. Lipreading is a holistic practice,
Live long and prosper! taking in my many things at once.)

At first they felt awkward, but after a few lessons of using gestures they became more
comfortable with the idea. Then they started picking up the words faster, so fast I was amazed.
Soon it became common practice with us and it introduced laughter. What happens when a
speechreading class becomes fun? They relax. We still focus on the lips but gestures are now a
habit for us.

My husband didnt want to learn sign so much, although he learned the ASL alphabet to help me
with words and names I was stuck on which was valuable to our communication. All along he
also used gestures when I was stuck. I laugh at his creativity but it works! And if I laugh the
strain on my end disappears. I hadnt given his gestures proper credit before teaching my class
last fall and now I value it.

Gestures are often used at our SWC conventions and gatherings also. When we are within our
tribe, we tend to get more animated which means things get knocked over. Or we might
accidentally whack someone beside us but no one minds much and laughter/smiles follow here
too.

Gestures make communication easier for those with hearing loss. Lets all get animated in our
conversations to encourage those in our life to use them as well. People pick that kind of thing up
unconsciously, plus its fun! Next time youre stuck, ask for a gesture.

Written by by Chelle Wyatt, SayWhatClub https://ahearingloss.com/


Brochures, posters and banners are available at http://www.who.int/pbd/deafness/world-hearing-
day/2017/en/
Does Love Last? is a short film with two different outcomes depending on the
viewers level of hearing loss. http://doeslovelastforever.com/#/film

Over 3.5 million Australians are living with some form of hearing loss, with the majority in denial
that they even have a problem. Cochlear has created a short film that is actually a hearing test in
disguise.

The film follows a couple from courtship to marriage and through to middle age. For those that
hear well, it would appear the couples relationship remains intact. But for those hard of hearing,
audio techniques, sound design, clever editing and specially choreographed performances can be
mistaken for the couples relationship deteriorating over time.

When you take away the ability to lip read and background noise, it becomes very difficult for
people with hearing loss to follow the conversation, Emma Ramsay, Senior Audiologist at
Cochlear said.

It is being launched in cinemas to unsuspecting audiences who have tickets to Oscar favourite
Lion generally an older cinema-goer. The campaign will be rolled out online where users can
take an interactive hearing test that better diagnoses their level of hearing loss, ultimately
directing them to the nearest audiologist to seek help.

We know how many precious moments are missed for those people living with hearing loss, said
Shaun Hand, general manager of Cochlear Australia and New Zealand.

Over time, people can lose friendships, their career, hobbies, self-esteem and even their
connections to loved ones. By creating something unique like the hearing test in disguise, were
hoping to get Australians talking about hearing loss, sharing the film with people they love
especially those who may be in denial about their hearing loss and ultimately, seeking help.
Hear our Heart Ear Bus Project (HoHEBP) is a unique community project of the Dubbo &
District Support Group for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Inc. (NSW), created in 2012 by local
parents, teachers of the deaf and interested community members due to a lack of services for
thousands of local children suffering hearing loss, many due to preventable ear health issues.

HoHEBP provides quality targeted hearing screening, (otoscopy, tympanometry, audiometry,


including OAE) hearing loss and otitis media awareness and prevention education (healthy ears
and understanding hearing loss workshops child and adult focus), specialist referrals (ENT,
Australian Hearing), plus follow up for children in all settings, including infants, pre-school/early
education, primary and secondary schools in Dubbo and close surrounding districts.

Targeted hearing screening involves staff and parent education about otitis media indicators
before selecting children to be tested. This allows for an educated selection of children who
genuinely need the testing.

Current data demonstrates that 40% of the 7,000 screens have ear health issues. HoHEBP
follows up and monitors the local children closely and provides individualised multi-faceted health,
education and wellbeing support for them. These children then have greater opportunities for
better hearing and ear health and no doubt improvements with other key components in their
young lives such as health, learning, wellbeing and enjoyment in the classroom.

The project is not government funded and relies purely on community donations, in-kind
professional volunteers and partnerships. Contact: Directors@hearourheart.org

NDIS News in Brief


NDIS agreement reached with WA Government
The Commonwealth and West Australian Governments have announced an agreement for a
nationally consistent state-run NDIS in Western Australia. The WA roll out will commence from
July 2017. For more information see http://christianporter.dss.gov.au/media-releases/ndis-wa-01022017
NDIS Quality and Safeguarding Framework
The Council of Australian Governments Disability Reform Council has released the NDIS Quality
and Safeguarding Framework, which will provide nationally consistent protections for participants
in the NDIS. For more information see the COAG Disability Reform Council Statement at
http://christianporter.dss.gov.au/media-releases/a-national-commitment-to-ndis-quality-and-safety

Everybody gains from disability inclusion


Inclusion is everybodys responsibility. For many people with disabilities there are a number of barriers to
gaining meaningful employment. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has created a website to
help employers understand why employing people with disability makes good business sense and how we
can all promote an inclusive society. Check out the ILO website at
http://www.ilo.org/infostories/Stories/Employment/The-win-win-of-disability-inclusion

Where do I find
We are continuing to update and improve the content on our website. Recently we have updated
the factsheets and publications page, so if youre looking for up to date NDIS resources, its the
place to start. There you will find roll out information; participant information; Easy English
documents; NDIA operational documents; quarterly reports; privacy policy; and information for
GPs and other health professionals. All the documents can be viewed, downloaded and printed
from https://www.ndis.gov.au/people-disability/fact-sheets-and-publications.html

Opinion piece
By Anthony Hogan PhD, Adjunct Professor, Research School of Psychology, The Australian
National University, Canberra.

I recently met with people leading the efforts on the NDIS and mental health. It was a valuable
exchange of insights and perspectives with many implications for our sector. I am going to
outline the issues that arose and then raise some questions that people might consider asking
and/or preparing responses for.

The NDIS is designed to address the support needs of people regarded as being severely and
permanently disabled. In particular, this is what Tier 3 funding packages are aimed at.
Depending on how this concept is applied to our sector, some 25,000 people may be eligible,
perhaps even 120,000 people. I say perhaps because if the above definition is strictly applied,
one may have to ask if, say a child who is profoundly deaf, but who is functionally mild to
moderately deaf as a result of an implant, actually meets the entry criteria for Tier 3? Especially
when the NDIS does not duplicate the existing support system. There is a weight of argument
that could justify a NO response. You will keep in mind here the already perceived blow out in the
NDIS system and the Productivity Inquiry now being run into the NDIS. Subsequent to the inquiry
there will be work to tighten up eligibility for access to Tier 3.
Looking at the epidemiology, very few HI adults will make the cut at Tier 3, solely on the basis of
degree of impairment, given their 'perceived' functionality (vis-a-vis stereotyped notions of
disability) despite the issues that I raise below.

Across sectors people are worried about what they are referring to as the Oasis effect. The Oasis
effect suggests that some people in the system will get a really good service and the rest will be
left to fend for themselves. This is exactly what happened in the 1980s when they de-
institutionalised Schedule 5 hospitals (psych and intellectual disability etc). The states were able
to withdraw from all service provision and shifted all responsibilities to the Commonwealth.
People eligible for de-institutionalisation got a gold card service while a majority of people,
especially those mentally ill, were, and still are often, literally left on the streets.

It could be argued that the above description of the NDIS is overly negative. However, across
sectors people are asking, well then, what will the system look like for everyone else? And when
one refers to 'everyone else' in our context this refers to every one who doesn't meet the above,
strict definition of eligibility. When I say everyone, I expect in time, that this definition will be
extended to the OHS program as well,
since there have already been discussions
about the need for both programs to be
aligned in policy and practice. And given
persistent data of non-device usage et al.
and a rapidly ageing population that is
making the OHS program grow, OHS
would be considering its options here, and
a tightening of the system for the 'most
deserving' would be an easy enough
policy position to sell to the broader
unsuspecting public.
Author of this opinion piece, Anthony Hogan PhD

The architects of the Scheme would be of the view that our sector was never envisaged being
part of the NDIS. And given the stereotype of the successful implantee often put forward in the
press, one can see where they are coming from. It was touted there would be 460,000 people in
the NDIS system. Deafness and mental health can make up that number alone and we were
never in the original mix when the system was envisaged.

The mental health sector encounters particular problems in NDIS with the issue of the permanent
nature of disability, given the episodic nature of many aspects of mental health. We don't have
an issue with permanency, but we do have an issue with perceptions of severity, especially when
it isn't physically manifest such as in the case of some physical and Intellectual disabilities. The
mental health policy people propose the need for a focus on key attributes of severe to profound
disability and cited factors such as educational failure, unemployment, additional illness,
homelessness, poverty etc, as manifest indicators of severity. The bulk of my social research
work has documented many of these aspects of hearing because these are the places where we
can get policy traction, within an otherwise intractable system.
OK - so what? We presently have three inquiries on the table that are of interest; two
parliamentary inquiries into issues on hearing and the productivity inquiry on the NDIS (watch out
for its coming discussion paper). So folks - I ask you - what's the plan?? And given that we may
be lucky to win any gains from the current inquiries (we didn't last time) and possibly have much
to lose, there needs to be a Plan A, a Plan B and maybe a Plan C. And frankly, because the
emergent policy systems are deficit based, if there isn't support for a comprehensive approach to
hearing services, frankly we may all be sunk, to the long term detriment of our clients now and
into the future.

John Cook identified some strategic policy insights in the Whirled Foundation submission to the
NDIS inquiry. I encourage you to have a look at those and discuss these John.

There needs to be a coherent, integrated song sheet, that encompasses needs across the sector,
supported by media and marketing. And we all need to somehow fund this and promote it. We
need to be very clear about where it is we want to be, as a sector, in 3-5 years time and have a
battle plan on how we are going to get there. Else, we'll have two more nice reports to put on
the shelf and a Productivity Inquiry that rules us out of the system. If going down the health
pathway is the strategy, I haven't seen the economics to justify this position. The Department of
Finance will certainly need to be convinced that the investment is warranted. Some NDIS
submissions have proposed a way forward here, but those calculations were literally back of the
envelope and far from comprehensive.

In the bigger game analysts refer to the idea of policy pathways. Such things, when laid down,
like train lines, become very hard to move once they are in place. The policy pathways for the
next generation of hearing services are being laid while I write and I fear, that as a sector we
really are not at the decision-making table. The Canberra policy perspective is that as an overall
lobby we do not have the capacity to organise and successfully make the case for what we need.
If they are right, we will be lucky to be on the train, as it were, irrespective of where it goes.

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