Occupational Noise Induced Hearing Loss
Introduction
Noise is an unwanted and undesirable sound. Exposure to high level of noise can lead to hearing loss.
What is occupational noise induced hearing loss?
Hearing loss as a result of exposure to noise at the workplace.
There are two types of occupational noise induced hearing loss:
Workers at risk
What type of workers are at risk of developing noise induced hearing loss?
Examples of high risk workers are:
Signs & symptoms
The ear normally does not show any physical changes. There will be no ear discharge and the ear drum looks normal as well.
Complications
Is noise induced hearing loss permanent?
It is a permanent condition since the nerve in the cochlea has been damaged. The nerve cannot regrow. (See diagram of ear)
Diagnosis & treatment
How can I confirm that I have noise induced hearing loss?
You can see doctor who will check your ear using a special tool and also perform audiometry test.
What is audiometry test?
It is a special test to confirm that you have hearing loss. This will be done in a special booth called ‘audiometry booth’.
This will be conducted by a competent person. You must be free from noise for at least 14 hrs before the test.
What should I do if I have noise induced hearing loss?
What are the treatment options for hearing loss?
Can I still perform my current work if I have noise induced hearing loss?
Yes you can. Provided a doctor has made a medical assessment called ‘fitness to work’ and find you fit to continue.
The decision made is based on several factors such as:
Prevention
What can I do if my workplace is noisy?
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Ear Muff |
Ear Plug
Notification
According to Occupational Safety and Health (Notification of Accident, Dangerous Occurrence, Poisoning and Occupational Diseases) Regulation 2004, it is the responsibilities of :
to notify occupational diseases to Department of Occupational Safety and Health.
RUJKAN
MyHealth Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia
Disediakan oleh
Perkhidmatan Kesihatan Pekerjaan
Pusat Kesihatan Universiti
Universiti Putra Malaysia
1 September 2020
Date of Input: 02/09/2020 | Updated: 02/09/2020 | izzatussofia
Universiti Putra Malaysia
43400 Serdang
Selangor Darul Ehsan.