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Noise-induced hearing loss is the number one occupational disability It is generally painless It is progressive over time THE It is permanent 4 PS IT IS PREVENTABLE!!!
HOW DO WE HEAR?
SOUND RECEPTORS
WHAT IS NOISE?
Loss of hearing sensitivity due to hazardous noise exposures from either steady state noise or impulse noise does occur even before we can measure the change!.
And it does carry negative consequences!!!
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What About the Soldier who Cant Hear Within Normal Hearing Range?
A normal listener can hear
footsteps at 100 meters voices at 180 meters rifle bolt closing at 1000 meters
THINK ABOUT IT
-Listening posts
-Walking point on patrol -Call for fire -Urban Warfare
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BOTTOM LINE
If you are exposing yourself to hazardous noise levels unprotectedits not a matter of whether you will develop hearing loss but when you will develop hearing lossthe odds are VERY RARELY beaten.
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HEARING PROTECTION
The only thing standing between you and a potential permanent hearing loss!!!!!
PRE-FORMED EARPLUGS
Single Flange:
(NRR)=23dB 5 color-coded sizes:
White (Extra Small)- 10% of the population Green (Small)- 25% Orange (Medium)-30% Blue (Large)- 40% Red (Extra Large)- 25%
FITTING TECHNIQUE
PRE-FORMED EARPLUGS
Triple Flange:
NRR= 26dB 3 color coded sizes:
Green (Small)= 10% of the population Orange (Medium)=80% Blue (Large)= 30%
FITTING TECHNIQUE
HAND-FORMED EARPLUGS
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)=29dB
Fitting Technique
Fitting Technique
Noise muffs should seal around the ear Replace ear cushions when cracked or worn Certain types of muffs allow placement of the headband on top of the head, behind the head, or under the chin
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COMBAT EARPLUGS
Insert YELLOW plugs for weapons fire in dismounted mode. Insert OLIVE DRAB plugs for steady state noise in and around aircraft, noisy vehicles and watercraft, etc. Keep filter holes free of earwax and other debris.
Check proper insertion for slight tension by gently tugging on plugs. Ensure that plugs are cleaned with soap and water and dry when returned to case.
Medical intervention???
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ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROLS
Limit exposure time by implementing shift work schedules
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DOUBLING UP!
Steady state noises 120dBA or greater Use of insert earplugs and circumaural earmuffs together
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Listening through HPDs takes practice but the threshold shift caused from wearing them is temporarythe shift caused from not protecting yourself could be permanent!!!!
TO SUMMARIZE
HEARING LOSS HAPPENS! Noise induced hearing loss is 100% preventable Your hearing health starts with YOU while at work or home If YOU dont protect it YOU will lose it
QUESTIONS??