Hearing Protection Devices (HPD)

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is irreversible hearing loss due to excessive levels of noise.

  • 30 million Americans are exposed to hazardous levels of noise in the workplace.

  • 26 million Americans between the ages of 20-69 have noise-induced hearing loss.

  • 5.2 million American children and adolescents ages 6-19 have noise-induced hearing loss.

Hearing Protection Devices should be worn at all times when around excessive levels of noise (>85 dB). These environments include:

  • Mowing the lawn and using power tools

  • Wood working

  • Shooting firearms/hunting

  • Vacuuming

  • Concerts

  • Loud music/playing in a band

Signs of NIHL include:

  • Decreased hearing sensitivity

  • Decreased clarity of speech

  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

  • Fullness in the ears